A client with 50% full-thickness burns has received fluid resuscitation for the past 24 hours. Which assessment warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Inspiratory and expiratory bilateral crackles indicate fluid overload or pulmonary edema, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate intervention. This condition can impair gas exchange and lead to respiratory distress or failure if not promptly addressed. B. An average urine output of 28 mL/hour is below the expected minimum of 30 mL/hour for adults, indicating potential renal impairment or inadequate fluid resuscitation. While concerning, it is not as immediately life-threatening as pulmonary edema. C. Vesicular bibasilar breath sounds are normal breath sounds heard at the bases of the lungs and do not indicate any immediate respiratory distress or fluid overload. This finding does not warrant urgent intervention. D. A central venous pressure (CVP) of 12 mm Hg is within the upper normal range (8-12 mm Hg) and suggests adequate fluid resuscitation. It does not indicate fluid overload or other immediate concerns requiring urgent intervention.