BURNS Flashcards
what does a third degree burn look like?
- damage to the entire epidermis, dermis, and possibly SQ tissue
- nerve endings, hair follicles, and sweat glands are destroyed
- red/tan, back, brown, or waxy white in color
- dry, leathery appearance
- no blanching
how long does it take a third degree burn to heal?
heals within weeks to months
when will the patient with a 3rd degree burn start feeling pain?
painful sensation returns as burn heals and nerve endings return so give pain medications
what is the priority interventions for patients with 3rd degree burns?
- maintain airway
- humidified 100% oxygen via nonbreather
- fluid replacement in the first 24 hours
- manage pain by giving 30 mins prior to dressing changes
- monitor for signs of septic shock
- no greasy lotions or butter
what are manifestations of septic shock?
- confusion
- increased capillary refill
- spiking fever
- cool extremities
- decreased bowel sounds and urine output
- tachycardia and tachypnea
what type of nutritional diet should a patient with burns have?
- increased calories and protein to promote healing
- provide TPN if necessary
- vitamins A and C for cell growth
- zinc for wound healing
how can infection be prevented if a patient has a burn?
- tetanus vaccine is given if not given in the last 5 years
- reverse isolation
how does a thermal burn occur and what can it lead to?
results from flames, scalds, contact with hot object which can lead to a inhalation injury
where does damage occur with an inhalation injury and how long can it be delayed for?
damage with an inhalation injury occurs to tracheobronchial tree and can be delayed for 24-48 hours
what is the parkland formula?
4 mL x BSA x weight in kg
give half of solution in first 8 hours and then the other half is given over 16 hour period
