A nurse has accepted care of a client with a major burn injury. The burns are 2nd and 3rd degree and estimated at 45% of total body surface area (TBSA). In addressing the pathophysiologic changes resulting from major burns the nurse is aware that the priority intervention for this client is?
Maintain adequate IV hydration
Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics
Give IV potassium chloride
Prepare intramuscular pain medications
The Correct Answer is A
A. Maintain adequate IV hydration: The first priority in major burns is fluid resuscitation due to massive fluid shifts and risk of hypovolemic shock.
B. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics: Not a priority during the initial resuscitative phase. Infection control comes later unless signs of sepsis appear.
C. Give IV potassium chloride: Burn patients often experience hyperkalemia initially due to cell lysis; potassium is not given early.
D. Prepare intramuscular pain medications: IM route is avoided due to poor perfusion and risk of inadequate absorption in burn patients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Place the drainage bag above the level of the client's abdomen: This would impede drainage by gravity. The drainage bag should be below abdominal level to promote outflow.
B. Warm the dialysate solution prior to instillation: Warming the solution enhances diffusion, promotes comfort, and prevents abdominal cramping. Use a warming pad, not a microwave.
C. Monitor vital signs every 2 hours during the procedure: While vital signs are monitored, more frequent monitoring is often required during the initial phase or if the patient is unstable.
D. Maintain the client in a left lateral position during dialysis: The semi-Fowler’s position is preferred to facilitate flow and lung expansion, not lateral positioning.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Administering sodium polystyrene sulfonate:
This medication removes potassium through the GI tract and is used to treat hyperkalemia.
B. Initiating an IV potassium infusion:
The client already has hyperkalemia; giving potassium would worsen it.
C. Administering a potassium-sparing diuretic:
These medications retain potassium and would further elevate potassium levels.
D. Encouraging the client to eat bananas:
Bananas are high in potassium and should be avoided in hyperkalemia.
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