In an industrial accident, a male client that weighs 155 lb (70 kg) sustained full-thickness burns over 40% of his body.
He’s in the burn unit receiving fluid resuscitation.
Which observation shows that the fluid resuscitation is benefiting the client?
a- A urine output consistently above 100 ml/hour
b- A weight gain of 4 lb (2 kg) in 24 hours
c- Body temperature readings all within normal limits
d- An electrocardiogram (ECG) showing no arrhythmias
Answer A.
In a client with burns, the goal of fluid resuscitation is to maintain a mean arterial blood pressure that provides adequate perfusion of vital structures.
If the kidneys are adequately perfused, they will produce an acceptable urine output of at least 0.5 ml/kg/hour.
Thus, the expected urine output of a 155-lb client is 35 ml/hour, and a urine output consistently above 100 ml/hour is more than adequate.
Weight gain from fluid resuscitation isn’t a goal. In fact, a 4-lb weight gain in 24 hours suggests third spacing.
Body temperature readings and ECG interpretations may demonstrate secondary benefits of fluid resuscitation but aren’t primary indicators.
Which observation shows that the fluid resuscitation is benefiting the client?
a- A urine output consistently above 100 ml/hour
b- A weight gain of 4 lb (2 kg) in 24 hours
c- Body temperature readings all within normal limits
d- An electrocardiogram (ECG) showing no arrhythmias
Answer A.
In a client with burns, the goal of fluid resuscitation is to maintain a mean arterial blood pressure that provides adequate perfusion of vital structures.
If the kidneys are adequately perfused, they will produce an acceptable urine output of at least 0.5 ml/kg/hour.
Thus, the expected urine output of a 155-lb client is 35 ml/hour, and a urine output consistently above 100 ml/hour is more than adequate.
Weight gain from fluid resuscitation isn’t a goal. In fact, a 4-lb weight gain in 24 hours suggests third spacing.
Body temperature readings and ECG interpretations may demonstrate secondary benefits of fluid resuscitation but aren’t primary indicators.
