A nurse working on a medical-surgical unit is notified about a mass casualty event that recently took place in the community.

Which of the following assignments should the nurse anticipate?

Choice A rationale:

The client will have no signs of infection in the wound by day 7. Rationale: This outcome is appropriate because it sets a specific timeframe (day 7) for assessing the absence of infection in the wound. It provides a clear and measurable criterion for evaluating the effectiveness of the wound care plan.

Choice B rationale:

The client will report a pain level of 4/10 or less during dressing changes. Rationale: Pain management is an essential aspect of wound care. Setting a target pain level (4/10 or less) during dressing changes allows for monitoring and adjustment of pain management strategies, making it an appropriate outcome.

Choice C rationale:

The client will consume at least 75% of meals and snacks daily. Rationale: While nutrition is important for wound healing, this outcome is less directly related to the wound itself. Monitoring meal consumption is a valuable goal for overall health but may not be as closely tied to wound improvement as infection control, pain management, or wound care technique.

Choice D rationale:

The client will reposition self in bed every 2 hours with assistance. Rationale: Repositioning every 2 hours is an important preventive measure for pressure ulcer development. However, this choice may not be appropriate for this particular client if they are unable to reposition themselves, even with assistance. This outcome may not be achievable for all clients, and a more individualized goal may be necessary.

Choice E rationale:

The client will demonstrate proper wound care technique before discharge. Rationale: Ensuring that the client can perform proper wound care techniques independently or with minimal assistance is a crucial outcome. This ensures that the client can maintain wound hygiene and prevent complications after discharge.

The correct answer is choice b. “Curling’s ulcer.”

Choice A rationale:

Elevated blood pressure is not a common complication specifically associated with partial-thickness burns. It may occur due to pain or stress but is not the most critical complication to anticipate.

Choice B rationale:

Curling’s ulcer, a type of stress ulcer, is a significant complication that can develop in burn patients due to the stress response and reduced blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract.

Choice C rationale:

Compartment syndrome is more commonly associated with circumferential full-thickness burns rather than partial-thickness burns.

Choice D rationale:

Excruciating pain is a symptom rather than a complication. While pain management is crucial, it is not the most critical complication to anticipate.