On admission to the burn unit,a patient with an approximate 25% total body surface area (TBSA)burn has the following initial laboratory results: Hct 58%,Hgb 18.2 mg/dL (172 g/L),serum K⁺ 4.9 mEq/L (4.8 mmol/L),and serum Na⁺ 135 mEq/L (135 mmol/L). Which of the following prescribed actions should be the nurse's priority?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's laboratory results show hemoconcentration,which may lead to a decrease in blood flow to the microcirculation unless fluid intake is increased. Because the hematocrit and hemoglobin are elevated,a transfusion is inappropriate,although transfusions may be needed after the emergent phase once the patient's fluid balance has been restored. On admission to a burn unit,the urine output would be monitored more often than every 4 hours (likely every1 hour).

On Admission to the Burn Unit,a Patient with an Approximate