Most of the deaths from burn trauma in the emergent phase that require a referral to a burn center result from:
cardiac arrest related to septic shock
Infection
adrenal failure
hypovolemic shock and renal failure.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Cardiac arrest related to septic shock:
Septic shock can occur in burn patients due to the breakdown of the skin barrier, which allows pathogens to enter the bloodstream and cause systemic infection. However, while septic shock is a serious complication of burn injuries, it is not the primary cause of death in the emergent phase. Septic shock can lead to multiple organ failure and contribute to mortality, but it is often a later complication rather than an immediate cause in the emergent phase.
B. Infection:
Infections are a significant concern in burn patients, especially as the burn wound provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth. However, infections typically contribute more significantly to mortality in the later phases of burn care rather than in the emergent phase. In the emergent phase, hypovolemic shock and other immediate complications have a greater impact on mortality.
C. Adrenal failure:
Adrenal failure, specifically acute adrenal insufficiency or Addisonian crisis, can occur in burn patients due to the stress response and corticosteroid depletion. While adrenal insufficiency is a concern in severe burn cases, it is not the primary cause of death in the emergent phase requiring referral to a burn center.
D. Hypovolemic shock and renal failure:
Hypovolemic shock is a critical concern in the emergent phase of burn trauma because burns can lead to significant fluid loss and electrolyte imbalances. Hypovolemic shock results from insufficient circulating blood volume, leading to inadequate perfusion of organs and tissues, which can be life-threatening. Additionally, renal failure can develop due to hypovolemia, decreased cardiac output, and the release of inflammatory mediators, leading to acute kidney injury (AKI). Hypovolemic shock and subsequent renal failure are major contributors to mortality in the emergent phase of burn trauma, necessitating prompt referral to a burn center for specialized care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. “All preoperative patients get this medication.” This statement is too broad and not entirely accurate. While many preoperative patients do receive famotidine (Pepcid), it’s not a standard for all. Medications are prescribed based on individual patient needs and medical history.
B. “The physician prescribed this medication for you.” While this is technically true, it doesn’t provide the patient with an understanding of why the medication is necessary. As a nurse, part of your role is to educate patients about their medications.
C. “It helps prevent ulcers from the stress of the surgery.” This is the correct answer. Famotidine (Pepcid) is given to decrease the amount of acid produced in the stomach, which can help prevent stress ulcers that can occur due to the physical stress of surgery.
D. “Since you don’t have ulcers, I will have to ask.” This statement suggests uncertainty and a lack of knowledge about the medication’s purpose. It’s important for healthcare professionals to understand the medications they administer and be able to explain them to patients.
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
A. Cool the burn with ice water:
Not recommended: Cooling a burn with ice water directly is not recommended as it can lead to further tissue damage and complications. Instead, the burn should be cooled with cool (not cold) running water for a limited time and then covered with a clean, dry cloth.
B. Administer opioid analgesics:
Recommended: Severe burns can cause excruciating pain, and opioid analgesics are often necessary to manage this pain effectively. However, the specific opioid, dosage, and route of administration should be determined by the healthcare provider based on the client's condition and pain level.
C. Administer systemic antibiotics:
Not routinely recommended: Unless there are signs of infection or the burn involves deep tissue damage, systemic antibiotics are not typically administered prophylactically for burn injuries. However, if there are signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage from the burn site, antibiotic therapy may be initiated based on culture and sensitivity results.
D. Administer benzodiazepines for anxiety management:
Considered: Severe burns can cause significant psychological distress and anxiety in patients. Benzodiazepines may be considered to manage acute anxiety and agitation in these situations. However, the decision to administer benzodiazepines should be made based on the client's overall condition, vital signs, and response to non-pharmacological interventions for anxiety.
E. Lay the head of the bed flat:
Not recommended: In a client with severe burns who is experiencing increased work of breathing, anxiety, and rapid breathing, it is generally more beneficial to elevate the head of the bed slightly (semi-Fowler's position) to improve respiratory mechanics and reduce anxiety-related respiratory distress.
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