A nurse is caring for a client with 45% total body surface area (TBSA) thermal burns. During the emergent, initial phases of burn shock the nurse should closely monitor for which electrolyte imbalance?
Hyperkalemia
Hypokalemia
Hypernatremia
Hypocalcemia
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hyperkalemia: During the emergent phase, massive cell injury causes potassium to leak into the extracellular space, raising serum K+ levels.
B. Hypokalemia: More common later in the fluid resuscitation or diuretic phase.
C. Hypernatremia: Sodium is often lost into burned tissues or with fluid shifts; hyponatremia may be seen early.
D. Hypocalcemia: While possible, especially if blood products are given, hyperkalemia is more prominent early.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "You have a genetic tendency for the development of anemia.”: Anemia in CKD is primarily due to impaired erythropoietin production, not genetics.
B. "The increased metabolic waste products in your body depress the bone marrow and cause anemia.”: While uremic toxins may have some marrow-suppressive effects, the main cause is lack of erythropoietin.
C. "There is a decreased production by the kidneys of the hormone erythropoietin which is the cause of your anemia.”: In CKD, damaged kidneys produce less erythropoietin, leading to reduced RBC production and anemia.
D. "You are not eating enough iron-rich foods, which is causing anemia.”: Although iron deficiency can contribute, this is not the primary cause in CKD-related anemia.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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.
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