7 Burn Complications Free Online FlashCards

When can burn complications develop?

Burn complications may develop within minutes or hours, during resuscitation, or weeks to months later.

What can new hoarseness after an enclosed-space fire indicate?

Hoarseness after enclosed-space smoke exposure, especially with facial burns or soot around the mouth, can signal an evolving inhalation injury.

Which changes can signal impaired perfusion in a circumferential limb burn?

Increasing tightness or pain, numbness, and weaker distal pulses can signal impaired limb perfusion beneath a circumferential burn.

Which findings during burn resuscitation can suggest poor perfusion?

Confusion, falling urine output, and cool extremities during resuscitation can indicate inadequate perfusion or another evolving problem.

What combination of changes raises concern for burn-wound infection and sepsis?

New wound discoloration or drainage together with lethargy or falling blood pressure requires urgent assessment for invasive wound infection and sepsis.

What can dark, reddish-brown urine after electrical injury indicate?

Dark, reddish-brown urine after electrical injury can indicate myoglobinuria from rhabdomyolysis, which can contribute to acute kidney injury.

What suggests a burn-scar contracture is developing near a joint?

A raised, tightening scar across a joint with progressively reduced movement can indicate a contracture.

What is the priority when evolving burn-related airway injury is suspected?

Urgently assess the airway and arrange early expert airway management; do not wait for obstruction or falling oxygen levels.

How can a circumferential eschar threaten a limb?

Swelling beneath a rigid circumferential eschar can restrict circulation and cause ischemia.

How should suspected poor perfusion during burn resuscitation be addressed?

Reassess perfusion and injuries, promptly alert the resuscitation or burn team, and adjust treatment under clinical supervision.

What is the priority when burn-wound infection or sepsis is suspected?

Promptly notify the clinical team so it can assess the wound and the patient's overall condition and direct treatment.

Why can a small visible burn underestimate electrical injury?

Electrical injury can damage deep muscle beyond what the visible skin burns suggest.