Question

A client sustained a burn from cutaneous exposure to lye. At the site of injury, copious irrigation to the site was performed for 1 hour. On admission to the hospital emergency department, the nurse assesses the burn site. Which findings would indicate that the chemical burn process is continuing?

a.Eschar
b.Intact blisters
c.Liquefaction necrosis
d.Cherry-red, firm tissue

Answer 1

Liquefaction necrosis indicates that the chemical burn process is continuing after a burn from cutaneous exposure to lye because it signifies ongoing tissue damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The finding that would indicate the chemical burn process is continuing is c. Liquefaction necrosis. This condition occurs when tissue is transformed into a liquid viscous mass, often as a result of the action of powerful corrosive agents, such as lye (sodium hydroxide), which is an element that can continue to cause tissue damage even after initial contact.

Other findings such as a. Eschar (a dry, dark scab or falling away of dead skin), b. Intact blisters (which can be a normal part of the burn healing process), and d. Cherry-red, firm tissue (which may indicate carbon monoxide poisoning or other issues but not necessarily ongoing chemical burns) do not specifically suggest that the chemical burn process is ongoing.

Chemical burns by corrosive substances such as lye require immediate and thorough washing to neutralize or remove the agent and stop the burning process. It is vital to assess and monitor for signs of ongoing tissue damage in a clinical setting.