A nurse has accepted care of a client with a major burn injury. The burns are 2nd and 3rd degree and estimated at 45% of total body surface area (TBSA). In addressing the pathophysiologic changes resulting from major burns the nurse is aware that the priority intervention for this client is?

A. Maintain adequate IV hydration: Major burns cause massive fluid shifts due to increased capillary permeability, leading to hypovolemia and risk for burn shock. Restoring and maintaining intravascular volume with IV fluids is the priority to support perfusion and organ function. B. Prepare intramuscular pain medications: The IM route is not reliable in burn clients due to impaired tissue perfusion and edema, which hinder absorption. Pain control is essential but not the immediate life-saving intervention. C. Give IV potassium chloride: Potassium levels may initially be elevated due to cell lysis. Supplementation is not appropriate early in burn care and should only be administered after careful monitoring of serum electrolytes. D. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics: Prophylactic antibiotics are not routinely given unless there is evidence of infection. Fluid resuscitation is more urgent in the initial phase to prevent shock and maintain hemodynamic stability.