Question

A client is admitted to the unit 3 hours after an injury with seconddegree burns to the face, neck, and head. The nurse would be most concerned with the client developing which of the following? A. Hypovolemia B. Laryngeal edema C. Hypernatremia D. Hyperkalemia

Short answer

A. Hypovolemia B. Laryngeal edema C. Hypernatremia D. Hyperkalemia Answer: B. Laryngeal edema

Step-by-step solution

A. Hypovolemia

Hypovolemia is a condition in which there is a decrease in blood volume, specifically plasma. This can be caused by burns due to the loss of fluids, proteins, and electrolytes.

B. Laryngeal edema

Laryngeal edema is the swelling of the larynx or voice box. This can be a potential complication in patients with burns to the face, neck, and head, as the swelling could obstruct the airway and lead to respiratory failure.

C. Hypernatremia

Hypernatremia is a condition characterized by high levels of sodium in the blood. Although it can be related to fluid loss due to burns, it is not the most immediate concern in this situation.

D. Hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia is a condition characterized by an elevated level of potassium in the blood. This condition might occur in severe burns, but it is not the most immediate concern in this case. Based on the above information:

Identify the most immediate concern

In this situation, the most immediate concern due to the location of the burns (face, neck, and head) would be B. Laryngeal edema. Burns in this area have the potential to cause swelling and obstruct the airway, leading to respiratory failure, which can be life-threatening.

Choose the correct answer

The nurse would be most concerned with the client developing B. Laryngeal edema, as it poses the most significant risk to the patient due to the potential for airway obstruction and respiratory failure.