A patient, age 26, is admitted to the burn unit with partial- and ...

[javeds]

A patient, age 26, is admitted to the burn unit with partial- and full-thickness burns to 20 of his body surface area as well as smoke-inhalation injury.
 
  Carbon monoxide intoxication secondary to smoke inhalation is often fatal because carbon monoxide a. binds with hemoglobin in place of oxygen.
  b. interferes with oxygen intake.
  c. is a respiratory depressant.
  d. is a toxic agent.

Question 2

During an assessment the nurse notes that an older patient has a gray discoloration of the skin. Which health problem does the nurse suspect the patient is experiencing?
 
  A) Emphysema
  B) Lung abscess
  C) Chronic bronchitis
  D) Peripheral vascular disease

[flannelavenger]

Answer to Question 1

A
Carbon monoxide poisoning is likely if the patient has been in an enclosed area. Carbon monoxide displaces oxygen by binding with the hemoglobin.

Answer to Question 2

C
Feedback:
In the presence of chronic bronchitis, the patient can have a blue or gray discoloration of the skin caused by a lack of oxygen binding to the hemoglobin. Ruddy, pink complexions often occur with emphysema and are associated with hypoxia from a high carbon dioxide level in the blood. Specific skin color changes are not associated with lung abscess or peripheral vascular disease.