The nurse is reviewing laboratory values for a patient receiving treatment during the emergent phase of burn management. Which laboratory result should the nurse expect for the patient at this time:
Increased hematocrit
Decreased blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
Decreased serum potassium
increased serum albumin
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: During the emergent phase of burn management, patients commonly experience hemoconcentration due to fluid shift from the intravascular space to the interstitial space. This leads to an increase in hematocrit, indicating a higher concentration of red blood cells in the blood.
Choice B rationale: Burn injuries often result in increased protein breakdown and an elevation in BUN levels.
Choice C rationale: Burn injuries can cause the release of potassium from damaged cells, leading to hyperkalemia rather than hypokalemia.
Choice D rationale: The emergent phase of burn management is characterized by a decrease in serum albumin due to protein loss from the burned tissue and increased capillary permeability.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: the epidermis becomes thinner and more fragile with age hence making the skin of elderly individuals more prone to injury, bruising, and infections.
Choice B rationale: this is incorrect because the skin in old age loses its elasticity and becomes more wrinkled due to the loss of collagen and elastin fibers responsible for maintaining the elasticity of the skin.
Choice C rationale: subcutaneous tissue comprising mainly of fat and connective tissue increases with age especially in regions such as the abdomen.
Choice D rationale: blood vessels within the skin become narrower and less efficient with increasing age thus resulting in decreased blood flow and oxygen delivery to the skin.
Choice E rationale: sebum production which is responsible for skin lubrication increases with age thus making this statement incorrect.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: this is important to assess the individual’s blood level and risk of infection but it is not a priority action compared to airway management.
Choice B rationale: The insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter is crucial for urine output monitoring but is not a priority action to take.
Choice C rationale: Inspection of the mouth for signs of inhalation injuries is a priority action for burns patients, especially those who have sustained facial burns since they can result in airway compromise and subsequent respiratory failure. The signs to look out for include; soot in the mouth and mouth, hoarseness, stridor, wheezes, or singed nasal hairs. In cases of suspected inhalation injuries, the nurse should inform the healthcare provider to assess for the need for intubation.
Choice D rationale: administration of analgesics is crucial for pain relief for all burn patients. However, this is not a priority action to take compared to airway management.
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