A 28-year-old male is admitted to the burn unit 2 hours after receiving second- and third-degree burns over 50% of his body surface in an industrial explosion. Abnormal vital signs include low blood pressure and tachycardia. Lab results show a high hematocrit due to:
A) sickle cell syndrome.
B) fluid movement out of the vascular space.
C) kidney failure.
D) increased vascular protein secondary to increased metabolism.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The high hematocrit is due to hemoconcentration from fluid loss out of the vascular space, which is common in burn patients due to capillary leak and fluid shifts.

A 28-Year-Old Male Is Admitted to the Burn Unit 2