HESI RN Case Study Burns

HESI RN Case Study Burns - What is the initial step in managing a thermal burn injury? ️️ Stop the burning process by removing the source of heat and cooling the area with tepid water. - Why is it important to assess burn patients for associated trauma? ️️ Burn injuries may occur alongside fractures or internal injuries, especially in accidents like explosions. - How does a burn injury affect the cardiovascular system? ️️ It causes increased capillary permeability, leading to fluid shifts and hypovolemia. - What is the purpose of administering pain medication before dressing changes in burn patients? ️️ To minimize the severe pain associated with wound care procedures. - Why is it critical to assess mental status in burn patients? ️️ Changes in mental status can indicate hypoxia, carbon monoxide poisoning, or shock. - What does a pale, cool, and mottled extremity in a burn patient indicate? ️️ Compromised circulation, possibly due to compartment syndrome or vascular damage. - How does inhalation injury differ from external burns? ️️ It primarily affects the respiratory tract and may not be visible externally. - Why is fluid overload a potential risk in burn resuscitation? ️️ Excessive fluid administration can lead to pulmonary edema and cardiac stress. - How do partial-thickness burns typically heal? ️️ Through re-epithelialization from the wound edges and remaining dermal structures. - What are the signs of wound infection in a burn patient? ️️ Increased redness, swelling, purulent drainage, fever, and foul odor. - Why is it important to elevate burned extremities? ️️ To reduce swelling and improve venous return. - What is the primary concern in electrical burns involving the heart? ️️ Cardiac arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation. - How does the risk of dehydration increase in burn patients? ️️ They lose fluids rapidly through damaged skin and increased evaporation. - Why are potassium levels monitored closely during burn recovery? ️️ Hypokalemia may occur as fluid resuscitation progresses and potassium shifts back into cells. - How do circumferential burns of the abdomen impact organ function? ️️ They can restrict expansion, impairing breathing and reducing blood flow to internal organs. - Why is psychological care vital for burn survivors? ️️ Burns often lead to emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and body image concerns. - What role does physical activity play in preventing complications in burn patients? ️️ It helps prevent muscle wasting, joint contractures, and deconditioning. - How is compartment syndrome in burn injuries confirmed? ️️ By measuring compartment pressures with a manometer. - Why is early enteral nutrition preferred over parenteral nutrition in burn