The patient has burns to both forearms that extend from the fingers to the elbows with no normal tissue present.The nurse has difficulty assessing the patient's pulse,and the patient complains of numbness in the fingers.The nurse notifies the primary care provider and expects the primary care provider to:
A) Increase fluid intake.
B) Perform an escharotomy.
C) Order physical therapy.
D) Perform debridement of some burned tissue.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Escharotomies (tissue decompression by cutting through burned skin)are performed to release pressure and prevent compartment syndrome (the compression of blood vessels,veins,muscle,or abdominal organs resulting in irreversible injury).
The patient needs relief from the compression of the burns; increasing fluid intake will not help.
Physical therapy will not decrease the patient's symptoms.An escharotomy should be performed.
Debridement will not release the constricted blood supply.An escharotomy is needed.

The Patient Has Burns to Both Forearms That Extend from the Fingers