Burns - 2040

Which factors indicate that the client's burn wounds are becoming infected? (Select all that apply.) A) Dry, crusty granulation tissue B) Elevated blood pressure C) Hypoglycemia D) Increasing wound drainage E) Swelling of the skin around wound F) Tachycardia

Correct: A,D,E A: Pale, boggy, dry, or crusted granulation tissue is a sign of infection. D: Swelling or edema of the skin around the wound is a sign of infection. E: Tachycardia is a systemic sign of infection.

A client with full-thickness burns to the lower extremities has had emergent fasciotomies. What assessment parameter does the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of the fasciotomies? 1 Improved distal pulses 2 Reduced edema 3 Improved blood pressure 4 Reduced fluid resuscitation needs

1. Improved distal pulses Rationale: When edema is severe under the eschar of a full-thickness wound, blood flow to the area is compromised. Incisions, escharotomies, or fasciotomies are performed to relieve the growing pressure under the eschar. After the escharotomy or fasciotomy is performed, the assessment of improved perfusion is achieved by evaluating pulses distal to the procedure. Edema may not be reduced immediately due to inflammation from the incision. Blood pressure may be slightly elevated secondary to discomfort following the procedure. A fasciotomy does not necessarily indicate that fluid resuscitation will no longer be required.

A client with a severe burn injury is prescribed gentamicin sulfate (Gentamar). Which nursing intervention is most appropriate related to this medication? 1 Monitoring creatinine clearance 2 Administering a pain medication 3 Evaluating white blood cell count 4 Assessing the wound for infection

1. Monitoring creatinine clearance Rationale: Gentamicin sulfate (Gentamar) is a medication prescribed to decrease the risk for infection for clients who have suffered a severe burn injury. While administering this medication to a client, it is essential that the nurse monitor the client's creatinine clearance because this drug can adversely affect kidney function and cause nephrotoxicity. Although the nurse would administer pain medication, evaluate white blood cell count, and monitor this client for wound infection, these are not interventions that are needed while administering gentamicin sulfate.

The nurse is caring for a client with a burn injury who is receiving sulfadiazine (Silvadene) to the burn wounds. Which best describes the goal of topical antimicrobials? 1 Reduction of bacterial growth in the wound and prevention of systemic sepsis 2 Prevention of cross-contamination from other clients in the unit 3 Enhanced cell growth 4 Reduced need for a skin graft

1. Reduction of bacterial growth in the wound and prevention of systemic sepsis Rationale: Topical antimicrobials such as sulfadiazine are an important intervention for infection prevention in burn wounds. Topical antimicrobials such as sulfadiazine do not prevent cross-contamination from other clients in the unit. They do not enhance cell growth nor do they minimize the need the need for a skin graft.

A client with a burn injury due to a house fire is admitted to the burn unit. The client's family asks the nurse why the client received a tetanus toxoid injection on admission. What is the nurse's best response to the client's family member? 1 "The last tetanus injection was less than 5 years ago." 2 "Burn wound conditions promote the growth of Clostridium tetani." 3 "The wood in the fire had many nails, which penetrated the skin." 4 "The injection was prescribed to prevent infection from pseudomonas.

2. "Burn wound conditions promote the growth of Clostridium tetani." Rationale: Burn wound conditions promote the growth of Clostridium tetani, and all burn clients are at risk for this dangerous infection. Tetanus toxoid enhances acquired immunity to C. tetani, so this agent is routinely given when the client is admitted to the hospital. Regardless of when the last tetanus injection is given, it is still given on admission to prevent C. tetani. The fact that there were many nails in the wood in the fire is irrelevant. Tetanus toxoid injection does not prevent pseudomonas infection.

How long must a client with burns wear pressure garments after undergoing biological dressing? 1 Once per week 2 24 hours per day 3 Daily for a month 4 Three hours per day

2. 24 hours per day Rationale: A client who has undergone biological dressing must wear pressure dressings to help heal grafts and prevent contractures and hypertrophic scars. The client is advised to wear them at least 23 hours per day, every day, until scar tissue is mature (12 to 24 months).

A client with an electrical burn is being resuscitated with fluids. The nurse reports a decrease in urine output from 50 mL/hr to 15 mL/hr. Which order does the nurse question? 1 500-mL fluid bolus 2 Furosemide 40 mg IV 3 Increase IV fluids by 100 mL/hr for 4 hours 4 Send urinalysis for myoglobin

2. Furosemide 40 mg IV Rationale: A common mistake in treatment for burn injury is administering diuretic agents during the fluid resuscitation phase in an effort to increase urine output. A reduction in urine output is usually the result of decreased perfusion. The appropriate intervention is to increase fluid resuscitation to improve renal perfusion and subsequent urine output. Sending a urinalysis for myoglobin is important because myoglobin levels are elevated in clients with electrical burns and can cause renal damage in large amounts.

Which alteration observed in a client rescued from a fire indicates pulmonary injury? 1 Exhaling through the mouth 2 Inability to swallow fluids 3 Reporting dizziness 4 Coughing with sputum

2. Inability to swallow fluids Rationale: The client who has been rescued from a fire may have pulmonary injury due to inhalation of carbon monoxide. Pulmonary injury is characterized by difficulty in swallowing and a brassy cough. Exhaling through the mouth is not an indication of pulmonary injury. Even in deep breathing or in congestion, clients exhale through the mouth. The client may have dizziness due to an imbalance in body fluids and electrolytes. Carbonaceous sputum indicates pulmonary injury or airway obstruction. Cough with sputum can be seen with infections or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD); it does not indicate pulmonary injury.

Which method must be employed during hydrotherapy for the debridement of a wound in the client with acid burns? 1 The wound must be cleaned three times a week. 2 Nonviable tissue must be removed by forceps. 3 The wounds are rinsed with cold water. 4 Small blisters are opened with scissors.

2. Nonviable tissue must be removed by forceps. Rationale: Nonviable tissue must not be touched with bare hands; it must be removed using scissors and forceps to avoid infection. The wound must be cleaned once or twice a day to avoid microbial infections. The wound must be rinsed with water at room temperature because it enhances the circulation of blood due to vasodilation. Small blisters must not be opened because they help in wound healing and act as covers and protective barriers.

Several clients have been brought to the emergency department (ED) after an office building fire. Which client is at greatest risk for inhalation injury? 1 Middle-aged adult who is frantically explaining to the nurse what happened 2 Young adult who suffered burn injuries in a closed space 3 Adult with burns to the extremities 4 Older adult with thick, tan-colored sputum

2. Young adult who suffered burn injuries in a closed space Rationale: The client who suffered burn injuries in a closed space is at greatest risk for inhalation injury because the client breathed a greater concentration of confined smoke. Clients who experienced a fire typically have some type of respiratory distress. However, the client talking without difficulty demonstrates that the client has minimal respiratory distress. Extensive burns to the hands and face, not the extremities, would be a greater risk. Sputum would be carbonaceous, not tan, if the client had suffered inhalation injury.

Which clinical manifestation is indicative of wound healing for a client in the acute phase of burn injury? 1 Pale, boggy, dry, or crusted granulation tissue 2 Increasing wound drainage 3 Scar tissue formation 4 Sloughing of grafts

3. Scar tissue formation Rationale: Indicators of wound healing include the presence of granulation, reepithelization, and scar tissue formation. Pale, boggy, dry, or crusted granulation tissue is indicative of infection, as are increasing wound drainage and sloughing of grafts.

The nurse is caring for a client with burns. Which question does the nurse ask the client and family to assess their coping strategies? 1 "Do you support each other?" 2 "How do you plan to manage this situation?" 3 "How have you handled similar situations before?" 4 "Would you like to see a counselor?"

3. "How have you handled similar situations before?" Rationale: Asking how the client and family have handled similar situations in the past assesses whether the client's and the family's coping strategies may be effective. Yes or no questions such as "Do you support each other?" are not very effective in extrapolating helpful information. The client and family in this situation probably are overwhelmed and may not know how they will manage; asking them how they plan to manage the situation does not assess coping strategies. Asking the client and the family if they would like to see a counselor also does not assess their coping strategies.

Which strategies does the nurse include when teaching a college student about fire prevention in the dormitory room? 1 Use space heaters to reduce electrical costs. 2 Check water temperature before bathing. 3 Do not smoke in bed. 4 Wear sunscreen.

3. Do not smoke in bed. Rationale: Smoking in bed increases the risk for fire because the person could fall asleep. Use of space heaters may increase the risk for fire, especially if they are knocked over and left unattended. Checking water temperature does not prevent fires, but it should be checked if the client has reduced sensation in the hands or feet. Sunscreen is advised to prevent sunburn.

A client has a 32% burn injury to the chest, arms, and legs with the following assessment data. After reviewing the assessment data, the nurse contacts the provider to evaluate the client for the possible development of which potential complication associated with burn injury? Data: RR 32, Temp 101.5, HR 110, BP 110/62, urine output<30mL/hr, BG 220 vomiting x1, pt alert, anxious, wounds converted from partial thickness to full thickness in some areas, increased burn wound drainage 1 Acute respiratory distress syndrome 2 Hypovolemic shock 3 Systemic infection 4 Acute kidney injury

3. Systemic infection Rationale: Burn-injured clients are at increased risk of local and systemic infection. Signs of infection include elevated temperature, tachycardia, tachypnea, decreased blood pressure, hyperglycemia, decreased gastric function, altered mental status, and the conversion of burn wounds to include increased drainage and poor healing. Acute respiratory distress syndrome, hypovolemic shock, and acute kidney injury are potential complications for burn-injured clients, but the assessment data in the client's chart do not indicate these conditions.

A newly admitted client has deep partial-thickness burns. The nurse expects to see which clinical manifestations? A) Painful red and white wounds B) Painless, brownish yellow eschar C) Painful reddened blisters D) Painless black skin with eschar

A A painful red and white wound bed characterizes deep partial-thickness burns; blisters are rare. Painless, brownish yellow eschar characterizes a full-thickness burn. A painful reddened blister is seen with a superficial partial-thickness burn. Painless black skin with eschar is seen in a deep full-thickness burn.

What is the best method to prevent autocontamination for a client with burns? A) Change gloves when handling wounds on different areas of the body. B) Ensure that the client is in isolation therapy. C) Restrict visitors. D) Watch for early signs of infection.

A Gloves should be changed when wounds on different areas of the body are handled and between handling old and new dressings. Isolation therapy methods and restricting visitors are used to prevent cross-contamination, not autocontamination. Watching for early signs of infection does not prevent contamination.

9. When assessing a patient with increased extracellular fluid (ECF) osmolality, the priority assessment for the nurse to obtain is a. mental status. b. skin turgor. c. capillary refill. d. heart sounds.

A Rationale: Changes in ECF osmolality lead to swelling or shrinking of cells in the central nervous system, initially causing confusion, which may progress to coma or seizures. Although skin turgor, capillary refill, and heart sounds may also be affected by ECF osmolality changes and resultant fluid shifts, these are signs that occur later and do not have as immediate an impact on patient outcomes.

Which factors indicate that a client's burn wounds are becoming infected? (Select all that apply.) A) Dry, crusty granulation tissue B) Elevated blood pressure C) Hypoglycemia D) Edema of the skin around the wound Correct E) Tachycardia

A, D, E Pale, boggy, dry, or crusted granulation tissue is a sign of infection, as is swelling or edema of the skin around the wound. Tachycardia is a systemic sign of infection. Hypotension, not elevated blood pressure, and hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia, are systemic signs of infection.

Which assessment information about a 60-kg client admitted 12 hours ago with a full-thickness burn over 30% of the total body surface area will be of greatest concern to the nurse? A) Bowel sounds are absent B) The pulse oximetry level is 91% C) The serum potassium level is 8.1 mEq/L D) Urine output since admission is 370mL

Correct: C An elevated serum potassium level can cause cardiac arrest.

A client with a burn injury due to a house fire is admitted to the burn unit. The client's family asks the nurse why the client received a tetanus toxoid injection on admission. What is the nurse's best response to the client's family member? A) "The last tetanus injection was less than 5 years ago." B) "Burn wound conditions promote the growth of Clostridium tetani." C) "The wood in the fire had many nails, which penetrated the skin." D) "The injection was prescribed to prevent infection from Pseudomonas."

B Burn wound conditions promote the growth of Clostridium tetani, and all burn clients are at risk for this dangerous infection. Tetanus toxoid enhances acquired immunity to C. tetani, so this agent is routinely given when the client is admitted to the hospital. Regardless of when the last tetanus injection is given, it is still given on admission to prevent C. tetani. The fact that there were many nails in the wood in the fire is irrelevant. Tetanus toxoid injection does not prevent Pseudomonas infection.

Which wound assessment characteristics suggest a superficial partial-thickness burn injury? A) Black-brown coloration B) Painful C) Moderate to severe edema D) Absence of blisters

B Characteristics of a superficial partial-thickness burn injury include pink to red coloration, mild to moderate edema, pain, and blisters. A black-brown coloration is more suggestive of full-thickness burn injury. Moderate to severe edema and absence of blisters may be present with deep partial-thickness to full-thickness burn injuries.

Several clients have been brought to the emergency department after an office building fire. Which client is at greatest risk for inhalation injury? A) Middle-aged adult who is frantically explaining to the nurse what happened B) Young adult who suffered burn injuries in a closed space C) Adult with burns to the extremities D) Older adult with thick, tan-colored sputum

B The client who suffered burn injuries in a closed space is at greatest risk for inhalation injury because the client breathed a greater concentration of confined smoke. Clients who experienced a fire typically have some type of respiratory distress. However, the client talking without difficulty demonstrates minimal respiratory distress. Extensive burns to the hands and face, not the extremities, would be a greater risk. Sputum would be carbonaceous, not tan, if the client had suffered inhalation injury.

1. The nurse obtains all of the following assessment data about a patient with fluid-volume deficit caused by a massive burn injury. Which of the following assessment data will be of greatest concern? a. Oral fluid intake is 100 ml for the last 8 hours. b. The blood pressure is 90/40 mm Hg. c. Urine output is 30 ml over the last hour. d. There is prolonged skin tenting over the sternum.

B Rationale: The blood pressure indicates that the patient may be developing hypovolemic shock as a result of fluid loss. This will require immediate intervention to prevent the complications associated with systemic hypoperfusion. The poor oral intake, decreased urine output, and skin tenting all indicate the need for increasing the patient's fluid intake but not as urgently as the hypotension.

Which assessment information about a 60-kg client admitted 12 hours ago with a full-thickness burn over 30% of the total body surface area is of greatest concern to the nurse? A) Bowel sounds are absent. B) The pulse oximetry level is 91%. C) The serum potassium level is 6.1 mEq/L. D) Urine output since admission is 370 mL.

C An elevated serum potassium level can cause cardiac dysrhythmias and arrest, and so is of the most concern. Absence of bowel sounds, a pulse oximetry level of 91%, and urine output of 370 mL since admission are normal findings during the resuscitation phase of burn injury.

A client who was the sole survivor of a house fire says, "I feel so guilty. Why did I survive?" What is the best response by the nurse? A) "Do you want to pray about it?" B) "I know, and you will have to learn to adapt to a new body image." C) "Tell me more." D) "There must be a reason."

C Asking the client to tell the nurse more encourages therapeutic grieving. Offering to pray with the client assumes that prayer is important to the client and does not allow for grieving; the nurse should never assume that the client is religious. The response, "I know, and you will have to learn to adapt to a new body image" only serves to add stress to the client's situation. The response, "There must be a reason" minimizes the grieving process by not allowing the client to express his or her concerns.

Which assessment is the nurse's highest priority in caring for a client in the acute phase of burn injury? A) Bowel sounds B) Muscle strength C) Signs of infection D) Urine output

C The client with burn injury is at risk for infection as a result of open wounds and reduced immune function. Burn wound sepsis is a serious complication of burn injury, and infection is the leading cause of death during the acute phase of recovery. Assessing bowel sounds, assessing muscle strength, and assessing urine output are important but not the priority during the acute phase of burn injury.

The nurse is caring for a client with a burn injury who is receiving sulfadiazine (Silvadene) to the burn wounds. Which best describes the goal of topical antimicrobials? A) Reduction of bacterial growth in the wound and prevention of systemic sepsis B) Prevention of cross-contamination from other clients in the unit C) Enhanced cell growth D) Reduced need for a skin graft

Correct: A Topical antimicrobials such as sulfadiazine are an important intervention for infection prevention in burn wounds.

The client with burn injuries states, ''I feel so helpless.'' Which nursing intervention is most helpful for this client? A) Encourages participation in wound care B) Encourages visitors C) Tells the client that he or she will be fine D) Tells the client that his or her feelings are normal

Correct: A Encouraging participation in wound care will offer the client some sense of control.

A client with partial-thickness wounds of the face and chest caused by a campfire is admitted to the burn unit. The nurse plans to carry out which physician request first? A) Give oxygen per non-rebreather mask at 100% FiO2 B) Infuse lactated Ringer's solution at 150mL/hr C) Give morphine sulfate 4 to 10mg IV for pain control D) Insert a 14 Fr retention catheter

Correct: A Facial burns are frequently associated with upper airway inflammation. Administration of oxygen will assist in maintaining the client's tissue oxygenation at an optimal level.

The nurse is reviewing a medication record for an older adult client recently admitted to the burn unit with severe burns to the upper body from a house fire. The nurse plans to contact the health care provider if the client is receiving which medication? A) Furosemide (Lasix) B) Digoxin (Lanoxin) C) Dopamine (Inotropin) D) Morphine sulfate

Correct: A Furosemide, a diuretic, generally is not given to improve urine output for burn clients. Diuretics decrease circulating volume and cardiac output by pulling fluid from the circulating blood to enhance diuresis. This reduces blood flow to other vital organs.

What is the best method to prevent autocontamination for the client with burns? A) Change gloves when handling wounds on different areas of the body. B) Ensure that the client is in isolation therapy. C) Restrict visitors. D) Watch for early signs of infection.

Correct: A Gloves should be changed when handling wounds on different areas of the body and between handling old and new dressings.

The newly admitted client has deep partial-thickness burns. The nurse expects to see which clinical manifestations? A) Painful red and white blisters B) Painless, brownish-yellow eschar C) Painful reddened blisters D) Painless black skin with eschar

Correct: A Painful red and white blisters accompany a deep partial-thickness burn

To position the client's burned upper extremities appropriately, how does the nurse position the client's elbow? A) In a neutral position B) In a position of comfort C) Slightly flexed D) Slightly hyperextended

Correct: A The neutral position is the correct placement of the elbow to prevent contracture development.

When teaching fire safety to parents at a school function, the school nurse offers advice about the placement of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors with which statement? A) ''Every bedroom should have a separate smoke detector.'' B) ''Every room in the house should have a smoke detector.'' C) ''If you have a smoke detector, you don't need a carbon monoxide detector.'' D) ''The kitchen and bedrooms are the only rooms that need smoke detectors.''

Correct: A The number of detectors needed depends on the size of the home. Recommendations are that each bedroom should have a separate smoke detector, at least one detector should be placed in the hallway of each floor of the house, and at least one detector is needed for the kitchen, stairway, and home entrance.

A client with a burn injury due to a house fire is admitted to the burn unit. The client's family asks the nurse why the client received a tetanus toxoid injection on admission. What is the nurse's best response to the client's family member? A) "The last tetanus injection was less than 5 years ago." B) "Burn wound conditions promote the growth of Clostridium tetani." C) "The wood in the fire had many nails, which penetrated the skin." D) "The injection was prescribed to prevent infection from Pseudomonas."

Correct: B Burn wound conditions promote the growth of Clostridium tetani, and all burn clients are at risk for this dangerous infection. Tetanus toxoid, 0.5 mL given IM, enhances acquired immunity to C. tetani. This agent is routinely given when the client is admitted to the hospital.

The client is in the emergent phase of burn injury. Which route does the nurse use to administer pain medication to the client? A) Intramuscular B) Intravenous C) Sublingual D) Topical

Correct: B During the resuscitation postburn phase, the IV route is used for giving opioid drugs because of problems with absorption from the muscle and stomach. When these agents are given by the intramuscular or subcutaneous route, they remain in the tissue spaces and do not relieve pain. In addition, when edema is present, all doses are rapidly absorbed at once when the fluid shift is resolving. This delayed absorption can result in lethal blood levels of analgesics.

The nurse on a burn unit has just received change-of-shift report about these clients. Which client will the nurse assess first? A) Adult client admitted a week ago with deep partial-thickness burns over 35% of the body who is reporting pain B) Firefighter with smoke inhalation and facial burns who has just arrived on the unit and whispers, "I can't catch my breath!" C) An electrician who suffered external burn injuries a month ago and is asking the nurse to contact the health care provider immediately about discharge plans D) Older adult client admitted yesterday with partial and full thickness burns over 40% of the body who is receiving IV fluids at 250mL/Hr

Correct: B Smoke inhalation and facial burns are associated with airway inflammation and obstruction. The client with difficulty breathing needs immediate assessment and intervention

Several clients have been brought to the ED after an office building fire. Which client is at greatest risk for inhalation injury? A) Woman who is frantically explaining what happened to the nurse B) Man who suffered burn injuries in a closed space C) Woman with burns to the extremities D) Man with thick, tan-colored sputum

Correct: B The client who suffered burn injuries in a closed space is at greatest risk for inhalation injury because the client breathed a greater concentration of confined smoke.

The nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of fluid resuscitation for the client in the emergent phase of burn injury. Which finding does the nurse correlate with clinical improvement? A) Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), 36 mg/dL B) Creatinine, 2.8 mg/dL C) Urine output, 40 mL/hr D) Urine specific gravity, 1.042

Correct: C Fluid resuscitation is provided at the rate needed to maintain urine output at 30 to 50 mL or 0.5 mL/kg/hr.

In assessing the client in the rehabilitative phase of burn therapy, which nursing diagnosis does the nurse anticipate? A) Acute Pain B) Excess Fluid Volume C) Disturbed Body Image D) Risk for Infection

Correct: C In the rehabilitative phase of burn therapy, the client is discharged and his or her life is not the same. A priority problem of reduced self-image is expected.

Which clinical manifestation is indicative of wound healing for the client in the acute phase of burn injury? A) Pale, boggy, dry, or crusted granulation tissue B) Increasing wound drainage C) Scar tissue formation D) Sloughing of grafts

Correct: C Indicators of wound healing include the presence of granulation, re-epithelization, and scar tissue formation.

Which strategies does the nurse include when teaching the college student about fire prevention in their dormitory room? A) use of space heaters. B) Check water temperature before a bath or shower. C) Do not smoke in bed. D) Wear sunscreen.

Correct: C Smoking in bed increases the risk for fire because the person could fall asleep

The client is being admitted with burn injuries. Which priority does the nurse anticipate within the first 24 hours? A) Body temperature assessment B) Emotional support C) Fluid resuscitation D) Urine output monitoring

Correct: C The client will require fluid resuscitation because fluid does not stay in the vessels after a burn injury.

The client is a burn victim who is noted to have increasing edema and decreased urine output as a result of the inflammatory compensation response. What does the nurse do first? A) Administers a diuretic B) Provides a fluid bolus C) Recalculates fluid replacement based on time of hospital arrival D) Titrates fluid replacement

Correct: D The intravenous fluid rate should be adjusted on the basis of urine output plus serum electrolyte values (titration of fluids).

When delegating care for clients on the burn unit, which client does the charge nurse assign to an RN who has floated to the burn unit from the intensive care unit? A) Burn unit client who is being discharged after 6 weeks and needs teaching about wound care B) Recently admitted client with a high-voltage electrical burn C) A client who has a 25% total body surface area (TBSA) burn injury, for whom daily wound débridement has been prescribed D) Client receiving IV lactated Ringer's solution at 150 mL/hr

D An RN float nurse will be familiar with administration of IV fluids and with signs of fluid overload, such as shortness of breath, and so could be assigned to the client receiving IV lactated Ringer's solution at 150 mL/hr. The client needing teaching about wound care, the client with a high-voltage electrical burn, and the client with a 25% TBSA burn injury all require specialized knowledge about burn injuries and should be assigned to RNs who have experience caring for clients with burn injuries.

4. When evaluating the response to treatment for a patient with a fluid imbalance, the most important assessment to include is a. skin turgor. b. presence of edema. c. hourly urine output. d. daily weight.

D Rationale: Daily weight is the most easily obtained and accurate means of assessing volume status. Skin turgor varies considerably with age; considerable fluid-volume excess may be present before fluid moves into the interstitial space and causes edema; and hourly urine outputs do not take account of fluid intake or of fluid loss through insensible loss, sweating, or loss from the gastrointestinal tract or wounds.

11. Intravenous potassium chloride (KCl) 40 mEq is ordered for treatment of a patient with hypokalemia. In administering the potassium solution, the nurse is aware that a. the KCl should be administered as an IV bolus so that the hypokalemia will be corrected before complications occur. b. the amount of KCl added to IV fluids should not exceed 20 mEq/L to prevent hyperkalemia from developing. c. the KCl should be given only through central lines to avoid venospasm and inflammation at the IV insertion site. d. to reduce the risk for cardiac dysrhythmia, the maximum amount of KCl to be administered in 1 hour is 20 mEq.

D Rationale: Rapid IV administration of KCl can cause cardiac arrest; KCl is administered at a maximal rate of 20 mEq/hr. Bolus administration of KCl is contraindicated. The rate of administration, not the amount of KCl added to IV fluids, is important. KCl can cause inflammation of peripheral veins, but it can be administered by this route.

The nurse is caring for a client who has a severe burn injury and is receiving fluid resuscitation. The nurse should assess which laboratory findings to determine the client's response to the therapy? Select all that apply. A Liver enzyme levels B Red blood cell count C White blood cell count D Serum creatinine levels E Blood urea nitrogen levels

D.Serum creatinine levels E. Blood urea nitrogen levels Rationale: Fluid shifts and fluid loss occur in clients with severe burns. Fluid resuscitation is implemented to maintain fluid balance in the client's body. Serum creatinine levels are measured to assess fluid balance in the body, whereas blood urea nitrogen levels give information about kidney function. Fluid resuscitation will not affect the liver enzyme levels, red blood cell count, or white blood cell count. Therefore, it is not necessary to monitor these laboratory values while evaluating the effects of fluid resuscitation.

A client with peripheral neuropathy is being discharged home after a pacemaker placement. What is the priority question to ask the client in assessing safety for home discharge planning to prevent burn-related injuries? 1 "Do you know how to ensure the hot water tank is set below 140° F?" 2 "Can friends provide meals for you for a few days?" 3 "Tell me how you test bath water before getting into the tub." 4 "Do you usually wear sunscreen when you are outside?"

1. "Do you know how to ensure the hot water tank is set below 140° F?" Rationale: The prevention of burns begins with planning and awareness. People should ensure hot water tanks are set below 140° F, especially for a client with peripheral neuropathy, as reduced sensation in the lower extremities may further reduce the client's ability to sense hot water effectively. Reeducating all clients on how to test water temperature before taking a bath/shower is also an important burn prevention assessment question, as is assessing the client's use of sunscreen.

Which statement made by a client who experienced 45% total body surface area burns to the face, neck, chest, and arms indicates positive adjustment to the injury? 1 "I am planning on returning to work gradually so that I don't get too tired." 2 "I am working with my family so they can do all of the chores I used to do." 3 "I hope the home care nurse can change my dressings so that I do not have to look at my wounds." 4 "My wife and I have decided to go to movies instead of baseball games so that people can't see me."

1. "I am planning on returning to work gradually so that I don't get too tired." Rationale: Reintegrating into the family situation, assuming the roles and responsibilities performed before the injury, and gradual reintegration back into the community and work are positive signs of beginning successful adjustment. Not looking at the wounds and not participating in family life are indicators of poor adjustment. Although it is good that the client is venturing outside of the home, the fact that he wants to remain unseen is a less positive indicator of adjustment.

An escharotomy must be performed in a client admitted for burns. Which statement accurately describes this procedure? 1 An incision is made through the burn eschar. 2 Anesthesia is administered to the client for pain. 3 Analgesia is not administered with this procedure. 4 The procedure is performed in the surgical suite

1. An incision is made through the burn eschar. Rationale: Escharotomy is a surgical procedure that is performed to treat inadequate tissue perfusion in the client with severe burns. In this procedure, an incision is made through the burn eschar. It helps to relive the pressure caused due to fluid accumulation near the chest and improves circulation. It is not necessary to administer anesthesia to the client as the nerve endings are destroyed due to the injury. The client is given sedation and analgesia to reduce anxiety. Although escharotomy is a surgical procedure, it is often performed in a treatment room.

A client with 32% total body surface area burns has a hematocrit of 54% 10 hours after the burn injury and 8 hours after fluid resuscitation was started. What is the nurse's best action? 1 Assess the client's blood pressure and urine output. 2 Notify the health care provider immediately. 3 Evaluate the client's electrocardiogram for dysrhythmias. 4 Increase the IV infusion rate

1. Assess the client's blood pressure and urine output. Rationale: The massive fluid shift causes hemoconcentration of the cells in the blood. The first action needed is to evaluate the adequacy of the fluid resuscitation by assessing the client's blood pressure and hourly urine output. If fluid resuscitation is adequate, no other action is needed. If blood pressure and urine output indicate fluid resuscitation at the current rate is not adequate, the health care provider should be called and resuscitation volumes may be increased.

Which factors indicate that a client's burn wounds are becoming infected? Select all that apply. 1 Dry, crusty granulation tissue 2 Elevated blood pressure 3 Hypoglycemia 4 Swelling of the skin around the wound 5 Tachycardia

1. Dry, crusty granulation tissue 4. Swelling of the skin around the wound 5. Tachycardia Rationale: Pale, boggy, dry, or crusted granulation tissue is a sign of infection, as is swelling or edema of the skin around the wound. Tachycardia is a systemic sign of infection. Hypotension, not elevated blood pressure, and hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia, are systemic signs of infection.

The nurse is reviewing a medication record for an older adult client recently admitted to the burn unit with severe burns to the upper body from a house fire. The nurse plans to contact the health care provider if the client is receiving which medication? 1 Furosemide (Lasix) 2 Digoxin (Lanoxin) 3 Dopamine (Inotropin) 4 Morphine sulfate

1. Furosemide (Lasix) Rationale: Furosemide, a diuretic, generally is not given to improve urine output for burn clients. Diuretics decrease circulating volume and cardiac output by pulling fluid from the circulating blood to enhance diuresis. This reduces blood flow to other vital organs. Digoxin may be used to strengthen the force of myocardial contractions in older adult clients. Dopamine may be given to increase cardiac output in older adult clients. Morphine sulfate may be indicated for pain management.

A client with partial-thickness burns of the face and chest caused by a campfire is admitted to the burn unit. The nurse plans to carry out which health care provider request first? 1 Give oxygen per nonrebreather mask at 100% Fio2. 2 Infuse lactated Ringer's solution at 150 mL/hr. 3 Give morphine sulfate 4-10 mg IV for pain control. 4 Insert a 14 Fr retention catheter.

1. Give oxygen per nonrebreather mask at 100% Fio2. Rationale: Facial burns are frequently associated with upper airway inflammation. Administration of oxygen will assist in maintaining the client's tissue oxygenation at an optimal level. Although fluid hydration and pain control are important, the nurse's first priority is the client's airway. Monitoring output is important, but the nurse's first priority is the client's airway.

Which electrolyte abnormality does the nurse anticipate during the resuscitation phase in a client with burn injury? 1 Hyperkalemia 2 Hypernatremia 3 Hypochloremia 4 Hypoglycemia

1. Hyperkalemia Rationale: Hyperkalemia may occur during the resuscitation phase of burn injury because of the tissue destruction, disruption of the sodium-potassium pump, and red blood cell hemolysis. Hyponatremia (not hypernatremia), hyperchloremia (not hypochloremia), and hyperglycemia (not hypoglycemia) may also occur.

A client who was successfully resuscitated after a burn injury begins diuresis 3 days after admission. For which assessment findings does the nurse observe during this phase of the injury? Select all that apply. 1 Hyponatremia 2 Hyperkalemia 3 Hypotension 4 Weight gain 5 Metabolic acidosis 6 Metabolic alkalosis

1. Hyponatremia 3. Hypotension 5. Metabolic acidosis Rationale: Fluid remobilization starts at about 24 hours postinjury and the diuretic phase begins at about 48-72 hours after burn injury. Interstitial fluids mobilize and diuresis results in hypotension, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, weight loss, and possible metabolic acidosis from loss of bicarbonate in the urine and increased metabolism.

To position a client's burned upper extremities appropriately, how does the nurse position the client's elbow? 1 In a neutral position 2 In a position of comfort 3 Slightly flexed 4 Slightly hyperextended

1. In a neutral position Rationale: The neutral (extended) position is the correct placement of the elbow to prevent contracture development. Placing the elbow in a position of comfort is not the best placement because the client then usually wants to flex the joint, which increases the risk for contracture development. The slightly flexed position increases the risk for contracture development. The slightly hyperextended position is not indicated and can be painful.

A client's burn injury was caused by a gasoline-fueled explosion. Which laboratory result does the nurse monitor closely for possible signs of organ injury? 1 Liver function tests 2 Arterial blood gases 3 Serum electrolytes 4 White blood cell count

1. Liver function tests Rationale: Burns caused by organic compounds such as those found in gasoline and chemical disinfectants are fat-soluble agents that, once absorbed by the skin, can have toxic effects on the kidneys and liver. The nurse should monitor labs that evaluate kidney and liver function. Monitoring arterial blood gas, serum electrolytes, and white blood cell count may be important as part of overall management of the burn-injured client; however, assessing laboratory results specific to kidney and liver function are the priority.

Which category of burn injury reflects deep partial-thickness burns affecting 20% of the total body surface area (TBSA)? 1 Moderate burn 2 Major burn 3 Minor burn 4 Severe burn

1. Moderate burn Rationale: Deep partial-thickness burns affecting 15% to 25% TBSA are classified as moderate burns. Partial-thickness burns affecting more than 25% of TBSA are classified as major burns. Deep partial-thickness burns affecting less than 15% of TBSA are considered minor burns. Burns are categorized as three types: major, minor, and moderate; there is no "severe" burn category.

A client who was rescued from an explosion is provided fluid resuscitation. Which factor should be assessed in the client after providing fluid resuscitation? 1 Serum sodium levels 2 Hemoglobin levels 3 Alanine aminotransferase 4 Serum cholesterol levels

1. Serum sodium levels Rationale: Renal failure is caused due to the accumulation of large amounts of proteins and myoglobin in the kidneys as a result of muscle damage. Fluid resuscitation must be provided to the client in order to maintain a rate of 30 to 50 mL of urine output. Serum sodium levels, serum creatinine levels, and specific gravity of the urine must be monitored every hour after providing fluid resuscitation to the client—it helps to assess kidney function. Hemoglobin levels can be monitored in case of anemia; hemoglobin levels are not an indicator of kidney function. Alanine aminotransferase is an enzyme that is secreted by the liver and is an indicator of hepatic functioning.

An older client has suffered a 45% body surface area burn from a house fire. Which complication is the client at greater risk of developing because of age-related changes? 1 Ineffective pain management 2 Acute kidney injury 3 Anxiety 4 Gastric stress ulcers

2. Acute kidney injury Rationale: The older client is at greater risk of developing shock and acute kidney injury after a burn injury because resuscitation efforts may be limited due to underlying cardiac dysfunction that occurs with aging. Ineffective pain management, anxiety, and gastric stress ulcers can occur in any client with a burn injury.

Which assessment does the nurse perform first on a client who has been admitted after an electrical injury with contact sites on the right hand and left foot? 1 Oxygen saturation 2 Electrocardiography 3 Depth of burn injury 4 Urine output

2. Electrocardiography Rationale: With contact sites on the right hand and foot, the current traveled in all body tissues between these two areas, with the potential to damage any tissue in the pathway. The heart is in this pathway and can suffer extensive damage to the muscle and the conduction system. Continuous electrocardiography (ECG) monitoring to determine heart health is the most important of the assessment areas listed.

The nurse is reviewing the orders for a client admitted with 25% body surface area burns. Which order does the nurse clarify with the health care provider? 1 Daily weights 2 Hold omeprazole (Prilosec) 3 Fentanyl (Actiq) 50 mcg IV every 4 hours PRN for pain 4 Activity as tolerated

2. Hold omeprazole (Prilosec) Rationale: The nurse should question the order to hold omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor agent. Clients with burn injury are at increased risk of developing an acute gastroduodenal ulcer (Curling's ulcer) within the first 24 hours after a severe burn injury because of reduced blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract and mucosal lining damage. Proton pump inhibitors and H2-histamine blocking agents along with early enteral feedings are important interventions to prevent this complication. Daily weights, IV opioid agents for pain management, and activity orders are appropriate for clients with burn injuries.

A client is in the resuscitation phase of burn injury. Which route does the nurse use to administer pain medication to the client? 1 Intramuscular 2 Intravenous 3 Sublingual 4 Topical

2. Intravenous Rationale: During the resuscitation postburn phase, the intravenous route is used for giving opioid drugs because of problems with absorption from the muscle and stomach. When these agents are given by the intramuscular or subcutaneous route, they remain in the tissue spaces and do not relieve pain. In addition, when edema is present, all doses are rapidly absorbed at once when the fluid shift is resolving. This delayed absorption can result in lethal blood levels of analgesics. Because the skin is too damaged, the sublingual route and the topical route are not indicated for administering drugs to the client in the resuscitation phase of burn injury.

During the resuscitation postburn phase, which route is used to administer morphine for pain relief? 1 Intramuscular 2 Intravenous 3 Subcutaneous 4 Oral

2. Intravenous Rationale: IV opioid analgesics like morphine are administered for pain relief for maximum absorption and quick onset action of the drug. Due to severe muscle damage and damage to the dermis and epidermis layers, neither the intramuscular or subcutaneous routes of administration are viable. Drug absorption through the oral route is not efficient, and the onset of action is also very slow in oral medications.

A client with burns to the face, neck, upper body, and hands from a house fire starts wheezing on exhalation and reports difficulty swallowing about 4 hours after the injury. What is the nurse's best first action? 1 Ensure that the client remains NPO. 2 Notify the Rapid Response Team. 3 Slow the IV infusion rate. 4 Raise the head of the bed.

2. Notify the Rapid Response Team. Rationale: The client is at high risk for an inhalation injury from the circumstances of the burn (enclosed space and burns to the face, neck, upper body, and hands). The wheezing and difficulty swallowing indicate possible pulmonary injury and oral and throat swelling. This client is in danger of losing a patent airway and needs emergency intubation immediately.

A client with burns has developed sepsis. Which sign or symptom in the client indicates fungal infection? 1 Severe disorientation 2 Occasional diarrhea 3 Hypothermia 4 Lethargy

2. Occasional diarrhea Rationale: Sepsis, often present due to open burn wounds, can be caused due to fungi, gram-positive bacteria, and gram-negative bacteria. Signs and symptoms of fungal infection are the presence of occasional diarrhea, mild disorientation, and fever. Severe disorientation and lethargy are symptoms of gram-positive bacterial infection. Hypothermia is a symptom of gram-negative bacterial infection.

A nursing student is caring for a client with open wound burns. Which nursing interventions does the nursing student provide for this client? Select all that apply. 1 Provides cushions and rugs for comfort 2 Performs frequent handwashing 3 Places plants in the client's room 4 Performs gloved dressing changes 5 Uses disposable dishes

2. Performs frequent handwashing 4. Performs gloved dressing changes 5. Uses disposable dishes Rationale: Handwashing is the most effective technique for preventing infection. Gloves should be worn when changing dressings to reduce the risk for infection. Equipment is not shared with other clients to prevent the risk for infection; this includes the use of disposable dishes. Cushions and rugs are difficult to clean and may harbor organisms, so are not provided. To avoid exposure to pseudomonas, having plants or flowers in the room is prohibited.

A client arrives in the emergency department with burns as a result of spilling boiling water while cooking. Which assessment finding of the burned areas on the tops of both hands and chest does the nurse use as a basis to document a probable full-thickness injury? 1 Most of the wounded area is red. 2 Thrombosed blood vessels are visible beneath the skin surface. 3 The area does not blanch when firm pressure is applied. 4 The client reports that the area hurts when touched.

2. Thrombosed blood vessels are visible beneath the skin surface. Rationale: The presence of thrombosed blood vessels beneath the skin surface is a strong indication of a full-thickness injury. Partial-thickness injuries can directly damage more superficial blood vessels, but do not cause thrombosis of deeper vessels. Red areas can be associated with nearly any depth of burn injury. The presence of pain is not a good indicator of burn depth. Although full-thickness injuries have much less pain than partial-thickness injuries, pain may still be present. Deep partial-thickness injuries may or may not blanch with firm pressure.

Which dietary guideline must be followed for a client with a large burn area? 1 The diet must be low-calorie and high-protein. 2 The client must not be encouraged to have solid foods. 3 Feeding can be started within 4 hours of fluid resuscitation. 4 The nutritional value of the diet must be less than 5000 kcal/day.

3. Feeding can be started within 4 hours of fluid resuscitation. Rationale: After starting fluid resuscitation feeding can begin for the client within 4 hours—this helps to provide stamina and energy to the client. The client requires a high amount of protein and calories for wound healing and tissue repair. The client must be encouraged to have solid food, to ingest as many calories as possible. A client who has a large burn area requires a diet with a nutritional value of more than 5000 kcal/day for effective body functioning.

A client receives a prescription for collagenase (Santyl) for treatment of burns. To decrease the risk of infection, the nurse expects what else to be included on the client's plan of care? 1 A narcotic 2 A loop diuretic 3 Polysporin powder 4 Blood glucose monitoring

3. Polysporin powder Rationale: Autolysis is the process of tissue disintegration using the client's own cellular enzymes. In this process, collagenase (Santyl) is applied directly to the burn wound, which may increase the client's risk of infection. Therefore, polysporin powder should be used with collagenase (Santyl) to prevent risk of infection. Narcotic pain medications are prescribed to reduce pain, not decrease the risk for infection. Diuretics enhance dieresis and reduce blood supply to vital organs, causing severe hypovolemic shock. Blood glucose levels are measured during the resuscitation phase and do not decrease the client's risk for infection.

In assessing a client in the rehabilitative phase of burn therapy, which priority problem does the nurse anticipate? 1 Intense pain 2 Potential for inadequate oxygenation 3 Reduced self-image 4 Potential for infection

3. Reduced self-image Rationale: In the rehabilitative phase of burn therapy, the client is discharged and his or her life is not the same. A priority problem of reduced self-image is expected. Intense pain and potential for inadequate oxygenation are relevant in the resuscitation phase of burn injury. Potential for infection is relevant in the acute phase of burn injury.

The nurse is caring for a burn client who is receiving topical gentamicin sulfate (Garamycin). What laboratory value does the nurse plan to monitor? 1 Blood glucose 2 C-reactive protein 3 Serum and urine creatinine 4 Platelet count

3. Serum and urine creatinine Rationale: Topical gentamicin may have nephrotoxic effects, and the nurse should monitor serum and urine creatinine clearance before and during treatment. Topical gentamicin sulfate does not affect blood sugar. C-reactive protein is used as a marker of inflammation. Topical gentamicin sulfate does not alter platelet counts.

Which assessment is the nurse's highest priority in caring for a client in the acute phase of burn injury? 1 Bowel sounds 2 Muscle strength 3 Signs of infection 4 Urine output

3. Signs of infection Rationale: The client with burn injury is at risk for infection as a result of open wounds and reduced immune function. Burn wound sepsis is a serious complication of burn injury, and infection is the leading cause of death during the acute phase of recovery. Assessing bowel sounds, assessing muscle strength, and assessing urine output are not the priority during the acute phase of burn injury.:

The nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of fluid resuscitation for a client in the resuscitation phase of burn injury. Which finding does the nurse correlate with clinical improvement? 1 Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), 36 mg/dL 2 Creatinine, 2.8 mg/dL 3 Urine output, 40 mL/hr 4 Urine specific gravity, 1.042

3. Urine output, 40 mL/hr Rationale: Fluid resuscitation is provided at the rate needed to maintain urine output at 30-50 mL or 0.5 mL/kg/hr. A BUN of 36 mg/dL is above normal, a creatinine of 2.8 mg/dL is above normal, and a urine specific gravity of 1.042 is above normal.

How does the nurse determine accurate calorie requirements for a client with burns? 1 Calculating the body mass index regularly 2 Measuring body weight regularly 3 Using indirect calorimetry 4 Using the Parkland formula

3. Using indirect calorimetry Rationale: Indirect calorimetry can be used to determine the accurate calorie requirements of a client with burns. This method determines energy expenditure by measuring oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production. Differences in body mass index and body weight will not provide information about the exact caloric requirements of a client. They give an idea regarding the relative nutritional requirements of an individual. The Parkland formula is used to calculate the amount of fluid necessary for fluid resuscitation of clients with burns.

A client is in the acute phase of burn injury. For which action does the nurse decide to coordinate with the registered dietitian? 1 Discouraging having food brought in from the client's favorite restaurant 2 Providing more palatable choices for the client 3 Helping the client lose weight 4 Planning additions to the standard nutritional pattern

4. Planning additions to the standard nutritional pattern Rationale: Nutritional requirements for the client with a large burn area can exceed 5000 kcal/day. In addition to a high calorie intake, the burn client requires a diet high in protein for wound healing. Consultation with the dietitian is required to help the client achieve the correct nutritional balance. It is fine for the client with a burn injury to have food brought in from the outside. The hospital kitchen can be consulted to see what other food options may be available to the client. It is not therapeutic for the client with burn injury to lose weight.

The client is a burn victim who is noted to have increasing edema and decreased urine output as a result of the inflammatory compensation response. What does the nurse do first? 1 Administer a diuretic. 2 Provide a fluid bolus. 3 Recalculate fluid replacement based on time of hospital arrival. 4 Titrate fluid replacement.

4. Titrate fluid replacement. Rationale: The intravenous fluid rate should be adjusted on the basis of urine output plus serum electrolyte values (titration of fluids). A common mistake in treatment is giving diuretics to increase urine output. Diuretics do not increase cardiac output, but actually decrease circulating volume and cardiac output by pulling fluid from the circulating blood volume to enhance diuresis. Fluid boluses are avoided because they increase capillary pressure and worsen edema. Fluid replacement formulas are calculated from the time of injury, not from the time of arrival at the hospital.

The nurse is reviewing the health history for an older adult client recently admitted to the burn unit with severe burns to the upper body from a house fire. The nurse plans to contact the health care provider if the client's history reveals which condition? A) Heart failure B) Diverticulitis C) Hypertension D) Emphysema

A A client's health history, including any pre-existing illnesses, must be known for appropriate management. Obtain specific information about the client's history of cardiac or kidney problems, chronic alcoholism, substance abuse, and diabetes mellitus. Any of these problems can influence fluid resuscitation. The stress of a burn injury can make a mild disease process worsen. In older clients, especially those with cardiac disease, a complicating factor in fluid resuscitation may be heart failure or myocardial infarction. Diverticulitis, hypertension and emphysema are important to be aware of in guiding treatment options. However, heart failure is the main concern when attempting to optimize this older client's fluid resuscitation.

A client with partial-thickness burns of the face and chest caused by a campfire is admitted to the burn unit. The nurse plans to carry out which health care provider request first? A) Give oxygen per facemask. B) Infuse lactated Ringer's solution at 150 mL/hr. C) Give morphine sulfate 4 to 10 mg IV for pain control. D) Insert a 14 Fr retention catheter.

A Facial burns are frequently associated with upper airway inflammation. Administration of oxygen will assist in maintaining the client's tissue oxygenation at an optimal level. Although fluid hydration and pain control are important, the nurse's first priority is the client's airway. Monitoring output is important, but the nurse's first priority is the client's airway.

When teaching fire safety to parents at a school function, which advice does the school nurse offer about the placement of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors? A) "Every bedroom should have a separate smoke detector." B) "Every room in the house should have a smoke detector." C) "If you have a smoke detector, you don't need a carbon monoxide detector." D) "The kitchen and the bedrooms are the only rooms that need smoke detectors."

A Teach all people to use home smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and to ensure these are in good working order. The number of detectors needed depends on the size of the home. Recommendations are that each bedroom has a separate smoke detector, there should be at least one detector in the hallway of each story, and at least one detector is needed for the kitchen, each stairwell, and each home entrance. Carbon monoxide detectors are instrumental in picking up other types of carbon monoxide gas, such as from a defective heating unit.

To position a client's burned upper extremities appropriately, how does the nurse position the client's elbow? A) In a neutral position B) In a position of comfort C) Slightly flexed D) Slightly hyperextended

A The neutral (extended) position is the correct placement of the elbow to prevent contracture development. Placing the elbow in a position of comfort is not the best placement because the client then usually wants to flex the joint, which increases the risk for contracture development. The slightly flexed position increases the risk for contracture development. The slightly hyperextended position is not indicated and can be painful.

The nurse is caring for a client with a burn injury who is receiving silver sulfadiazine (Silvadene) to the burn wounds. Which best describes the goal of topical antimicrobials? A) Reduction of bacterial growth in the wound and prevention of systemic sepsis B) Prevention of cross-contamination from other clients in the unit C) Enhanced cell growth D) Reduced need for a skin graft

A Topical antimicrobials such as silver sulfadiazine are an important intervention for infection prevention in burn wounds. Topical antimicrobials such as silver sulfadiazine do not prevent cross-contamination from other clients in the unit. They do not enhance cell growth, nor do they minimize the need the need for a skin graft.

A client with burn injuries states, "I feel so helpless." Which nursing intervention is most helpful for this client? A Encouraging participation in wound care B Encouraging visitors C Reassuring the client that he or she will be fine D Telling the client that these feelings are normal

A Encouraging participation in wound care will offer the client some sense of control. Encouraging visitors may be a good distraction, but will not help the client achieve a sense of control. Reassuring the client that he or she will be fine is neither helpful nor therapeutic. Telling the client that his or her feelings are normal may be reassuring, but does not address the client's issue of feeling helpless.

A client is in the resuscitation phase of burn injury. Which route does the nurse use to administer pain medication to the client? A) Intramuscular B) Intravenous C) Sublingual D) Topical

B During the resuscitation phase, the IV route is used for giving opioid drugs because of problems with absorption from the muscle and stomach. When these agents are given by the intramuscular or subcutaneous route, they remain in the tissue spaces and do not relieve pain. In addition, when edema is present, all doses are rapidly absorbed at once when the fluid shift is resolving. This delayed absorption can result in lethal blood levels of analgesics. The sublingual route may not be effective, and because the skin is too damaged, the topical route is not indicated for administering drugs to the client in the resuscitation phase of burn injury.

The nurse on a burn unit has just received change-of-shift report about these clients. Which client does the nurse assess first? A) Adult client admitted a week ago with deep partial-thickness burns over 35% of the body who is reporting pain B) Firefighter with smoke inhalation and facial burns who has just arrived on the unit and whispers, "I can't catch my breath!" C) An electrician who suffered external burn injuries a month ago and is asking the nurse to contact the health care provider immediately about discharge plans D) 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

B Smoke inhalation and facial burns are associated with airway inflammation and obstruction; the client with difficulty breathing needs immediate assessment and intervention. Although the client admitted a week ago with deep partial-thickness burns is reporting pain, this client does not require immediate assessment. The electrician who suffered burn injuries a month ago is stable and has been in the burn unit for a month, so the client's condition does not warrant that the nurse should assess this client first. The older adult client admitted yesterday with burns over 40% of the body is stable; he is receiving IV fluids and does not need to be assessed first.

The nurse is caring for a client with burns to the face. Which statement by the client requires further evaluation by the nurse? "I am getting used to looking at myself." "I don't know what I will do when people stare at me." "I know that I will never look the way I used to, even after the scars heal." "My spouse does not stare at the scars as much now as in the beginning."

B The statement about not knowing what to do when people stare indicates that the client is not coping effectively; the nurse should assist the client in exploring coping techniques. Visits from friends and short public appearances before discharge may help the client begin adjusting to this problem. The statement that the client is getting used to looking at himself or herself, the realization that he or she will always look different than before, and stating that the client's spouse doesn't stare at the scars as much all indicate that the client is coping effectively. Community reintegration programs can assist the psychosocial and physical recovery of the client with serious burns.

A nursing student is caring for a client with open-wound burns. Which nursing interventions does the nursing student provide for this client? (Select all that apply.) A) Provides cushions and rugs for comfort B) Performs frequent handwashing C) Places plants in the client's room D) Performs gloved dressing changes E) Uses disposable dishes

B,D,E Handwashing is the most effective technique for preventing infection. Gloves should be worn when changing dressings to reduce the risk for infection. Equipment is not shared with other clients to prevent the risk for infection. Disposable items (e.g., pillows, dishes) are used as much as possible. Cushions and rugs are difficult to clean and may harbor organisms, and so are not provided. To avoid exposure to Pseudomonas, having plants or flowers in the room is prohibited.

The nurse is caring for a client with burns. Which question does the nurse ask the client and family to assess their coping strategies? A "Do you support each other?" B "How do you plan to manage this situation?" C "How have you handled similar situations before?" D "Would you like to see a counselor?"

C Asking how the client and family have handled similar situations in the past assesses whether the client's and the family's coping strategies may be effective. "Yes-or-no" questions such as "Do you support each other?" are not very effective in extrapolating helpful information. The client and family in this situation probably are overwhelmed and may not know how they will manage; asking them how they plan to manage the situation does not assess coping strategies. Asking the client and the family if they would like to see a counselor also does not assess their coping strategies.

The nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of fluid resuscitation for a client in the resuscitation phase of burn injury. Which finding does the nurse correlate with clinical improvement? A) Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), 36 mg/dL B) Creatinine, 2.8 mg/dL C) Urine output, 40 mL/hr D) Urine specific gravity, 1.042

C Fluid resuscitation is provided at the rate needed to maintain urine output at 30 to 50 mL/hr or 0.5 mL/kg/hr. A BUN of 36 mg/dL is above normal, a creatinine of 2.8 mg/dL is above normal, and a urine specific gravity of 1.042 is above normal.

In assessing a client in the rehabilitative phase of burn therapy, which priority problem does the nurse anticipate? A) Intense pain B) Potential for inadequate oxygenation C) Reduced self-image D) Potential for infection

C In the rehabilitative phase of burn therapy, the client is discharged and his or her life is not the same. A priority problem of reduced self-image is expected. Intense pain and potential for inadequate oxygenation are relevant in the resuscitation phase of burn injury. Potential for infection is relevant in the acute phase of burn injury.

Which clinical manifestation is indicative of wound healing for a client in the acute phase of burn injury? A) Pale, boggy, dry, or crusted granulation tissue B) Increasing wound drainage C) Scar tissue formation D) Sloughing of grafts

C Indicators of wound healing include the presence of granulation, re-epithelialization, and scar tissue formation. Pale, boggy, dry, or crusted granulation tissue is indicative of infection, as are increasing wound drainage and sloughing of grafts.

Which strategy does the nurse include when teaching a college student about fire prevention in the dormitory room? A) Use space heaters to reduce electrical costs. B) Check water temperature before bathing. C) Do not smoke in bed. D) Wear sunscreen.

C Smoking in bed increases the risk for fire because the person could fall asleep. Use of space heaters may increase the risk for fire, especially if they are knocked over and left unattended. Checking water temperature does not prevent fires, but it should be checked if the client has reduced sensation in the hands or feet. Sunscreen is advised to prevent sunburn.

A client with burn injuries is being admitted. Which priority does the nurse anticipate within the first 24 hours? A) Range-of-motion exercises B) Emotional support C) Fluid resuscitation D) Sterile dressing changes

C The client will require fluid resuscitation because fluid does not stay in the vessels after a burn injury. Range-of-motion exercise is not the priority for this client. Although emotional support and sterile dressing changes are important, they are not the priority during the resuscitation phase of burn injury.

The nurse is caring for the client with burns to the face. Which statement by the client requires further evaluation by the nurse? A) ''I am getting used to looking at myself.'' B) ''I don't know what I will do when people stare at me.'' C) ''I know that I will never look like I used to, even after the scars heal.'' D) ''My spouse does not stare at the scars as much as in the beginning.''

Correct: B This statement indicates that the client is not coping effectively; the nurse should assist the client in exploring coping techniques.

The nursing student is caring for the client with open wound burns. Which priority nursing interventions does the nursing student include for this client? (Select all that apply.) A) Provides cushions and rugs for comfort B) Cleans equipment daily C) Performs frequent handwashing D) Provides fresh fruits and vegetables E) Performs gloved dressing changes F) Provides plants and flowers in the room G) Uses disposable dishes

Correct: B,C,E,G B) Rationale: Daily cleaning of the equipment and general housekeeping are essential for infection control. C) Rationale: All isolation methods use proper and consistent handwashing as the most effective technique for preventing infection transmission. E) Rationale: Use of asepsis requires all health care personnel to wear gloves during all contact with open wounds. G) Rationale: Disposable items (e.g., pillows, syringes, and dishes) are used as much as possible.

Which assessment does the nurse prioritize for the client in the acute phase of burn injury? A) Bowel sounds B) Muscle strength C) Signs of infection D) Urine output

Correct: C The client with burn injury is at risk for infection as a result of open wounds and reduced immune function. Burn wound sepsis is a serious complication of burn injury, and infection is the leading cause of death during the acute phase of recovery.

The nurse is caring for the client with burns. Which question does the nurse ask the client and family to assess their coping strategies? A) ''Do you support each other?'' B) ''How do you plan to manage this situation?'' C) ''How have you handled similar situations before?'' D) ''Would you like a counselor?''

Correct: C This question assesses whether the client's and the family's coping strategies may be effective.

The client who was the sole survivor in a house fire says, ''I feel so guilty. Why did I survive?'' What is the best response by the nurse? A) ''Do you want to pray about it?'' B) ''I know, and you will have to learn to adapt to a new body image.'' C) ''Tell me more.'' D) ''There must be a reason.''

Correct: C This response encourages therapeutic grieving.

The nurse is caring for a burn client who is receiving topical gentamicin sulfate (Garamycin). What laboratory value will the nurse plan to monitor? A) Blood glucose B) C-reactive protein C) Serum and urine creatinine D) Platelet count

Correct: C Topical gentamicin may have nephrotoxic effects, and the nurse should monitor serum and urine creatinine clearance before and during treatment.

When delegating care for clients on the burn unit, which client will the charge nurse assign to an RN who has floated to the burn unit from the pediatric unit? A) Burn unit client who is being discharged after 6 weeks and needs teaching about wound care B) Recently admitted client with a high-voltage electrical burn C) A client who has a 25% total body surface area burn injury for whom daily wound debridement has been prescribed D) Client receiving IV lactated Ringer's solution at 100mL/hr

Correct: D An RN float nurse will be familiar with administration of IV fluids and with signs of fluid overload, such as shortness of breath.

The client is in the acute phase of burn injury. In which situation does the nurse decide to coordinate with the nutritionist? A) To discourage having food brought in from the client's favorite restaurant B) To provide more palatable choices for the client C) To help the client lose weight D) To plan additions to the standard nutritional pattern

Correct: D Nutritional requirements for the client with a large burn area can exceed 5000 kcal/day. In addition to a high calorie intake, the burn client requires a diet high in protein for wound healing. Consultation with the dietitian is required to help the client achieve the correct nutritional balance.

A client is in the acute phase of burn injury. For which action does the nurse decide to coordinate with the registered dietitian? A) Discouraging having food brought in from the client's favorite restaurant B) Providing more palatable choices for the client C) Helping the client lose weight D) Planning additions to the standard nutritional pattern

D Nutritional requirements for the client with a large burn area can exceed 5000 kcal/day. In addition to a high calorie intake, the burn client requires a diet high in protein for wound healing. Consultation with the dietitian is required to help the client achieve the correct nutritional balance. It is fine for the client with a burn injury to have food brought in from the outside. The hospital kitchen can be consulted to see what other food options may be available to the client. It is not therapeutic for the client with burn injury to lose weight.

The client is a burn victim who is noted to have increasing edema and decreased urine output as a result of the inflammatory compensation response. What does the nurse do first? A) Administer a diuretic. B) Provide a fluid bolus. C) Recalculate fluid replacement based on time of hospital arrival. D) Titrate fluid replacement.

D The intravenous fluid rate should be adjusted on the basis of urine output plus serum electrolyte values (titration of fluids). A common mistake in treatment is giving diuretics to increase urine output. Giving a diuretic will actually decrease circulating volume and cardiac output by pulling fluid from the circulating blood volume to enhance diuresis. Fluid boluses are avoided because they increase capillary pressure and worsen edema. Fluid replacement formulas are calculated from the time of injury, not from the time of arrival at the hospital.