Question

The nurse is caring for a patient with extensive burn injuries. Which of the following parameters would the nurse evaluate to determine if the patient is receiving adequate fluid resuscitation? Select all that apply.

a) Heart rate
b) Urine output
c) Oxygen saturation
d) Blood pressure

Answer 1

To assess adequate fluid resuscitation in a burn patient, a nurse should monitor heart rate, urine output, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. These parameters help evaluate renal function, fluid balance, and tissue oxygenation, which are critical in managing circulatory shock due to fluid losses from burns.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine if a patient with extensive burn injuries is receiving adequate fluid resuscitation, a nurse would evaluate several parameters. The most relevant to assess would be:

• Heart rate: To check for tachycardia or other irregularities.
• Urine output: As a measure of renal function and fluid balance, with an output of less than 1 mL/kg body weight/hour being a concern.
• Blood pressure: To assess for hypotension that could indicate inadequate volume replacement.
• Oxygen saturation: To ensure that tissues are receiving adequate oxygen, which can be affected by fluid balance.

Correct fluid resuscitation is critical in treating circulatory shock, which can result from the massive loss of fluid due to burn injuries. In circumstances of shock, the goal is to restore blood flow to maintain oxygen and nutrient supply to tissues, preventing a positive-feedback loop that could lead to patient mortality.