The nurse on a burn unit has just received a change-of-shift report about these clients. Which client does the nurse assess first?
An electrician who suffered external burn injuries a month ago and is asking the nurse to contact the healthcare provider immediately about discharge plans.
Older adult client admitted yesterday with partial- and full-thickness burns over 40% of the body who is receiving IV fluids at 250 mL/hr.
Adult client admitted a week ago with deep partial-thickness burns over 35% of the body who is reporting pain.
Firefighter with smoke inhalation and facial burns who has just arrived on the unit.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: The electrician who suffered external burn injuries a month ago is stable enough to be concerned with discharge plans. This indicates that his burns have been managed and he is in a phase of recovery where he is preparing for discharge. Although his request is important, it is not an immediate priority compared to more acute conditions.
Choice B reason: The older adult client admitted yesterday with partial- and full-thickness burns over 40% of the body is in a critical condition and needs continuous monitoring, especially with high fluid administration. However, their condition is currently being managed with IV fluids. While this client requires close observation, there is no immediate indication of a life-threatening change that demands immediate intervention compared to the firefighter's situation.
Choice C reason: The adult client admitted a week ago with deep partial-thickness burns over 35% of the body who is reporting pain is also in need of pain management and ongoing care. However, pain, while significant and requiring treatment, does not take precedence over the potential airway compromise and respiratory distress posed by smoke inhalation and facial burns in the firefighter.
Choice D reason: The firefighter with smoke inhalation and facial burns who has just arrived on the unit must be assessed first due to the immediate risk of airway compromise and respiratory distress. Smoke inhalation can lead to rapid swelling of the airways, making it a critical emergency. Facial burns also increase the risk of airway obstruction. Prompt assessment and intervention are essential to ensure the firefighter's airway remains patent and to provide necessary respiratory support.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The rehabilitative phase of burn care focuses on restoring function, improving cosmetic appearance, and achieving the best possible quality of life for the patient. This phase typically begins after the wound has healed and continues for months to years. The care priorities mentioned, such as wound care and nutritional support, indicate that the patient is still in a more active phase of treatment rather than the long-term rehabilitative phase.
Choice B reason: The acute phase of burn care starts after the initial resuscitation and continues until the wound is closed. During this phase, the primary focus is on wound care, nutritional support, and prevention of complications like infection. The goal is to promote healing, prevent infection, and address the patient's nutritional needs to support recovery. This phase aligns with the care priorities mentioned in the question.
Choice C reason: The emergent phase, also known as the resuscitative phase, begins at the time of injury and continues for the first 24-48 hours. The primary focus during this phase is on stabilizing the patient's condition, managing airway and breathing, fluid resuscitation, and addressing immediate life-threatening issues. The care priorities in the question indicate that the patient has moved beyond the initial resuscitative efforts.
Choice D reason: The immediate resuscitative phase overlaps with the emergent phase and focuses on providing immediate life-saving measures to stabilize the patient. This includes fluid resuscitation, airway management, and treating shock. The care priorities mentioned in the question suggest that the patient is beyond the initial resuscitative efforts and is in a more ongoing phase of treatment.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Providing at least 5000 kcal/day is essential for a patient with burn injuries. Burns significantly increase the body's metabolic rate and caloric needs to support the healing process and prevent catabolism. Ensuring an adequate caloric intake helps meet the energy demands required for tissue repair and recovery.
Choice B reason: Starting an oral diet on the first day may not be appropriate for all burn patients, particularly those with extensive burns or those who are not yet stable. Nutrition needs should be carefully assessed, and feeding may begin via alternative methods such as enteral nutrition until the patient is ready for oral intake.
Choice C reason: Administering a diet high in protein is crucial for burn patients, as protein is essential for wound healing, maintaining lean body mass, and supporting the immune system. Protein intake should be increased to help repair damaged tissues and promote recovery.
Choice D reason: Collaborating with a registered dietitian is important to create an individualized nutrition plan that meets the specific needs of the burn patient. A dietitian can provide expertise in calculating caloric and protein requirements, recommending appropriate supplements, and monitoring the patient's nutritional status.
Choice E reason: Offering frequent high-calorie snacks helps ensure that the patient meets their increased caloric needs. Small, frequent meals and snacks can be more manageable for patients with reduced appetite or those who have difficulty consuming large meals. High-calorie snacks provide additional energy to support healing and recovery.
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