Author Question: A patient is being evaluated for severe burns to the torso and upper extremities, with edema around ... (Read 135 times)

Lisaclaire · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A patient is being evaluated for severe burns to the torso and upper extremities, with edema around the burned areas. How should the nurse describe the underlying cause for this assessment finding?

1. inability of the damaged capillaries to maintain fluids in the cell walls
2. reduced vascular permeability in the burned area
3. decreased osmotic pressure in the burned tissue
4. increased fluids in the extracellular compartment

Question 2

A patient is being discharged after treatment for a scald burn that caused a superficial burn over one hand and a superficial partial-thickness burn on several fingers. What should be included in this patient's discharge instructions?

Select all that apply.
1. Report any fever to the health care provider.
2. Report any purulent drainage to the health care provider.
3. Use only sterile dressings on the fingers.
4. Cleanse the areas every hour with alcohol to prevent infection.
5. Apply a topical antimicrobial agent as instructed.

Ksanderson1296 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
Burn shock occurs during the first 2436 hours after the injury. During this period, there is an increase in microvascular permeability at the burn site. The osmotic pressure is increased, causing fluid accumulation. There is a reduction of fluids in the extracellular body compartments.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 5
Fever and purulent drainage are indicative of infection and should be reported to the health care provider. Sterile dressings should be used on the superficial partial-thickness burns where the skin is not intact. Daily cleansing is sufficient, with only soap and water, not alcohol. Topical agents may be ordered by the health care provider and the patient should follow directions for applying to help prevent infection.