Question

A 68-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department after being rescued from her burning apartment building. She was found unconscious in her bedroom, which was full of smoke and flames. On presentation, she has extensive second and third degree burns over her legs and torso with an estimated TBSA of 25%. The patient is stable with a blood pressure of 160/70 mm Hg and a pulse of 100/mi. The body temperature is 36°C (96.8°F). The plan is to initiate fluid replacement.What is the most appropriate management?

Answer 1

Burn:

A physical injury caused by heat, cold or electricity , radiation or caustic chemicals .

Appropriate management for the woman with Second and Third degree buns with 25% TBSA ( Total Body Surface area).

Goals for treatment: are to;

* Control pain

* remove dead tissue

* Prevent infection

* reducing the risk of scarring and restore functioning

Appropriate management:

* Fluids to prevent dehydration,especially Intravenous fluids

* Administration of pain medication as per physician's order to relieve pain , particularly for dressing and for dressing change.

* Use appropriate dressing and burn creams: Topical application of creams to heal the wound fast and appropriate dressing . Avoid occlusive dressing, to prevent collection of exudate

Example of Antimicrobial creams : Bacitracin, Silvadene

* Administration of antibiotics to prevent infections

* Administration of a Tetanus injection

* Debridememt of dead tissue and skin graft to cover large wounds .

* Provide High protein diet to fasten healing.

* Provide Psychological support continously to the client