The nurse is caring for a burn victim during the emergent phase. Assessment findings include white charred leathery wounds over 72% Total Body Surface Area (TBSA). Following intubation and mechanical ventilation, what is the priority intervention?
Fluid resuscitation
Transfer to a burn center
Application of sterile dressings
Administer morphine 8mg IV.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Fluid resuscitation
Burns covering a large TBSA result in massive fluid loss due to increased capillary permeability, leading to hypovolemic shock. Fluid resuscitation with lactated Ringer’s solution using the Parkland formula is the priority to restore intravascular volume and prevent organ failure.
B. Transfer to a burn center
While this patient requires specialized burn care, the immediate priority is fluid resuscitation. After initial stabilization, transfer to a burn center can be arranged.
C. Application of sterile dressings
Wound care is important, but it is not the priority in the emergent phase. Restoring circulation and preventing shock take precedence.
D. Administer morphine 8 mg IV
Pain management is crucial, but it is secondary to restoring intravascular volume and preventing hypovolemic shock.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Inspect muscle symmetry in the upper and lower extremities
While muscle symmetry is important, it only assesses muscle mass and atrophy, not motor function or coordination.
B. The RN asks the client to squeeze their hand or show 2 fingers and lift their arm off the bed
This assesses motor strength and coordination, which are key components of motor ability. Handgrip strength and upper limb movement provide important information about neurological function.
C. Check plantar response and deep tendon reflex testing bilaterally
These tests assess reflexes and neurological pathways rather than motor function and coordination.
D. Comparative cranial nerve assessments and ability to follow simple commands
While following commands assesses cognition, it does not directly evaluate muscle strength or motor ability.
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
A. Distributive shock
Severe burns lead to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), causing massive vasodilation, similar to septic shock (a type of distributive shock).
D. Hypovolemic shock
Fluid loss from burns leads to hypovolemic shock, which is the most common type of shock seen in burn patients.
B. Cardiogenic shock
Cardiogenic shock is caused by heart failure and is not a primary concern in burn injuries.
C. Obstructive shock
Obstructive shock (e.g., tension pneumothorax, cardiac tamponade) does not occur in burn patients unless another condition is present.
E. Neurogenic shock
Neurogenic shock occurs from spinal cord injuries, not burns.
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