Final answer:
Burn clients in the intermediate phase of recovery may experience weight loss due to increased metabolism, heightened energy requirements, stress hormones, and decreased appetite. It is a normal part of the healing process and does not indicate a decline in overall health.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the intermediate phase of burn recovery, it is common for clients to experience weight loss. This is mainly due to increased metabolism and heightened energy requirements during the healing process. Burn injuries cause the body to release stress hormones such as cortisol, which can lead to the breakdown of muscle tissue and increased calorie expenditure.
Additionally, the body's immune response to burns can increase nutrient needs and result in decreased appetite. This, combined with potential difficulties in eating and digesting food due to pain or injury, can further contribute to weight loss.
The nurse should reassure the family member that weight loss is a normal part of the recovery process for burn patients in the intermediate phase. It is important for the nurse to explain that weight loss at this stage does not necessarily indicate a decline in overall health, but rather a natural response to the body's healing needs.