Question

A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a toddler who has partial-thickness burns on their right arm. _____________ actions should the nurse take

Answer 1

The nurse should cover the burn with a clean cloth, manage pain, monitor for signs of infection, maintain hydration, check vital signs, and prepare for possible transfer to a burn unit.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse caring for a toddler with partial-thickness burns should take several critical actions to ensure proper care and to prevent complications. Firstly, the nurse should assess the extent of the burns and cover the area with a clean, dry cloth to protect it. Pain management is essential, so administering prescribed analgesics would be necessary. It is crucial to monitor for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, and pus, which might indicate the need for antibiotics. In addition, maintaining the child's hydration status is important as burns can lead to fluid loss. Assessing the child's vital signs regularly, ensuring they are in a safe and secure environment, and preparing them for potential transfer to a burn unit are also part of the emergency care protocol for burn injuries.