Burns Flashcards
basic pathophysiology of burns
thermal damage to the skin causes coagulative necrosis, inflammation, and rapid edema
why does edema occur after a burn injury?
increased capillary leakage
vasodilation
what factors determine extent of burn injury?
source of burn and temperature
duration of exposure to extreme temperature
skin integrity
describe a first degree burn
only effects the epidermis
no edema
possible blistering
how is a first degree burn treated?
oral pain medication
cool compresses
should make complete recovery
describe a second degree burn
effects epidermis and some of dermis
sensitivity and pain are increased
skin is blistered, mottled, peeling
how is a second degree burn treated?
2-3 week recovery
pain control
dead tissue may need to be removed
may require grafting
describe a third degree burn
full thickness - epidermis, dermis, maybe subQ tissue
loss of sensation and pain
edema and eschar tissue that sloughs off
waxy skin
how is a third degree burn treated?
wound debridement
skin graft
pain control
manage systemic effects in the body
describe a fourth degree burn
includes fat, muscle, or bone involvement
usually due to prolonged exposure to temperature source
how is a fourth degree burn treated?
almost always requires amputation
what stages of burns are likely to cause shock?
third and fourth degree
when is a skin graft not beneficial?
fourth degree burns
what is the rule of 9s for measuring % burn coverage?
front or back of a leg is 9% body surface
front or back of an arm is 4.5% body surface
front or back of head is 4.5% body surface
front of torso is 18% (belly 9% and chest 9%)
back of torso is 18% (upper back 9% and lower back 9%)
wiener is 1%
what is the palmar method for measuring % burn coverage?
patient’s hand equal to 1% body surface area
what % surface area of burns is high risk for shock in adults?
> 20% surface area
what % surface area of burns is high risk for shock in children?
> 15% surface area