The nurse is alert for the expected fluid shift in the patient who was burned 24 hours earlier. (place the events in the appropriate sequence)
Explanation & Rationale
A. Hypoproteinemia causes fluid to move from the bloodstream to extracellular space. Burns damage capillaries and reduce plasma proteins, particularly albumin, which normally helps retain fluid in the intravascular space. Loss of these proteins leads to fluid leakage into the interstitial space. B. Generalized edema occurs. The movement of fluid from the vascular space to tissues results in widespread swelling, often noticeable within hours after the burn. C. Urine output decreases. Due to reduced renal perfusion and hypovolemia, the kidneys conserve fluid, leading to oliguria. Monitoring urine output is a key indicator of effective fluid resuscitation. D. Fluid volume deficit occurs. As fluid leaves the bloodstream, hypovolemia develops, putting the patient at risk for burn shock if not promptly treated. E. Blood is shunted from the kidneys to compensate for the loss of fluid volume. The body responds to hypovolemia by redirecting blood flow to vital organs (heart, brain) and reducing perfusion to less vital organs, including the kidneys.