Fluid Resuscitation for Burn Patients in the Emergent Phase: Type of Fluid and Administration

Type of Fluid for Fluid Resuscitation in the Emergent Phase of Burn Recovery

The type of fluid that is typically used for fluid resuscitation in the emergent phase of burn recovery is lactated Ringer’s solution. Lactated Ringer’s solution is a crystalloid solution that contains electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, chloride, and lactate. It is also isotonic, meaning that it has the same osmolality as blood.

Why is Lactated Ringer’s Solution the Preferred Fluid for Fluid Resuscitation in Burn Patients?

Lactated Ringer’s solution is the preferred fluid for fluid resuscitation in burn patients because it:

• Isotonic, meaning that it will not cause fluid shifts into or out of the cells
• Contains electrolytes that are lost in burn injuries
• Has a pH that is close to the pH of blood
• Is relatively inexpensive and readily available

Administration of Fluid Resuscitation

Fluid resuscitation in burn patients is typically administered intravenously (IV). The amount of fluid that is administered depends on the severity of the burn injury and the patient’s individual needs. However, a general rule of thumb is to administer 4 mL of fluid per kilogram of body weight per percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) burned.

For example: A 70 kg patient with a 20% TBSA burn would receive 4 mL/kg/TBSA burned * 70 kg * 20% TBSA burned = 560 mL of fluid in the first 24 hours.

Conclusion

Lactated Ringer’s solution is the preferred fluid for fluid resuscitation in burn patients in the emergent phase of recovery. It is isotonic, contains electrolytes that are lost in burn injuries, has a pH that is close to the pH of blood, and is relatively inexpensive and readily available. Fluid resuscitation is typically administered intravenously, and the amount of fluid that is administered depends on the severity of the burn injury and the patient’s individual needs.

Additional Information

It is important to monitor the patient closely during fluid resuscitation to prevent complications such as fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances. The nurse should also monitor the patient’s vital signs, urine output, and mental status.