Escharotomy: What Nurses Need to Know

Introduction

An escharotomy is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made through the eschar, which is the dead skin that forms over a burn. Escharotomies are performed to relieve pressure and improve circulation in the affected area.

Nurse’s Statements Regarding Escharotomy

The following statements made by the nurse regarding escharotomy are true:

• An escharotomy is a surgical procedure. An escharotomy is a minor surgical procedure that is typically performed under local anesthesia.
• Escharotomies are performed to relieve pressure and improve circulation in the affected area. The eschar can compress the underlying tissues and restrict blood flow. An escharotomy relieves pressure and allows for improved circulation.
• Escharotomies are typically performed on the extremities. Escharotomies are most commonly performed on the arms and legs, but they can also be performed on other areas of the body, such as the chest or neck.

Other Statements

The following statements made by the nurse regarding escharotomy are not true:

• Escharotomies are always necessary for burn patients. Escharotomies are only necessary for burn patients who are experiencing complications, such as pressure sores or impaired circulation.
• Escharotomies are painful. Escharotomies are typically performed under local anesthesia, so the patient should not experience any pain during the procedure.
• Escharotomies leave large scars. Escharotomies are typically small incisions that heal well with minimal scarring.

Additional Information

Here is some additional information about escharotomies:

• Escharotomies are performed by a variety of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, plastic surgeons, and burn specialists.
• Escharotomies are typically performed in the hospital, but they can also be performed in an outpatient setting.
• The recovery time for an escharotomy is typically short. Most patients are able to go home the same day as their surgery.

Conclusion

An escharotomy is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made through the eschar to relieve pressure and improve circulation in the affected area. Escharotomies are typically performed on the extremities and are not always necessary for burn patients. Escharotomies are typically performed under local anesthesia and do not leave large scars.