A nurse working in a burn unit cares for clients with complicated body system responses. Which response describes the body's initial reaction to a severe burn injury?

A. Lordosis. Lordosis (excessive inward curvature of the lower spine) is not a normal part of aging. It is more commonly associated with pregnancy, obesity, or certain musculoskeletal conditions rather than normal aging.
B. Barrel chest. A barrel chest (increased anteroposterior chest diameter) is commonly associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), not normal aging. While lung compliance decreases with age, a barrel chest is not a typical age-related change.
C. Pectus excavatum. Pectus excavatum (a sunken or concave chest) is a congenital chest wall deformity and is not related to aging.
D. Kyphosis. Kyphosis (excessive outward curvature of the upper spine, leading to a hunched posture) is a normal age-related change due to bone density loss, vertebral compression, and degenerative changes in the spine. It is more common in older adults, especially those with osteoporosis.

A. Apply a zinc-based cream with brief changes. Zinc-based creams create a protective barrier against moisture and irritation from incontinence. This helps prevent skin breakdown by reducing the effects of prolonged exposure to urine and stool.
B. Apply powder to the perineum. Powder can cause clumping when mixed with moisture, increasing friction and leading to skin irritation. It is not the preferred method for preventing skin breakdown in incontinent patients.
C. Provide a donut-shaped pillow to sit on. Donut-shaped pillows create pressure points around the edges, which can worsen pressure injuries rather than prevent them. A pressure-relieving cushion is a better alternative.
D. Use an antimicrobial soap to clean skin. Harsh soaps can strip the skin of its natural protective oils, leading to dryness and irritation. A mild, pH-balanced cleanser is recommended for skin care.
E. Place a foam pad on the bed. Foam pads help redistribute pressure and reduce friction, lowering the risk of pressure injuries for patients who have limited mobility and spend extended time in bed.
F. Ensure the client slides up in bed on their own. Allowing the client to slide in bed increases friction and shearing forces, leading to skin breakdown. Assisted repositioning is necessary to prevent injury.
G. Two-person assist to move up in bed using a slide sheet. Using a slide sheet with assistance minimizes friction and shear, which are significant contributors to pressure ulcers. This method helps protect fragile skin.
H. Elevate the head of the bed above 30 degrees. Elevating the bed above 30 degrees increases pressure on the sacrum and coccyx, heightening the risk of skin breakdown. A lower elevation is preferred unless contraindicated.
I. Request a physical therapy consult. A physical therapy consult can help improve mobility, strength, and positioning techniques, reducing prolonged pressure on vulnerable areas and promoting skin integrity.