Which patient care goals does the nurse prioritize during the acute phase of burn treatment? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply

Question

1. Preventing infection
2. Preventing loss of body heat through the wounds
3. Securing and maintaining the airway
4. Splinting, positioning, and exercising affected joints
5. Providing for patient comfort

Answer 1

1,2,4,5
Rationale 1: The prevention of infection continues to be a goal as the patient moves into the acute phase of burn care.
Rationale 2: The interruption of skin integrity results in loss of body heat. The health care team works to prevent this loss during the acute phase of burn treatment.
Rationale 3: Airway is always important, but the ABCs should have been addressed in the emergent phase of burn care.
Rationale 4: Return of function is supported by splinting, positioning, and exercising affected joints. This focus continues through the acute care period.
Rationale 5: Pain relief continues to be a focus of care in the acute phase of burn care.