What finding is the most reliable guide to the adequacy of fluid replacement for a small child with burns?
A) Absence of thirst
B) Falling hematocrit
C) Increased seepage from burn wound
D) Urinary output of 1 to 2 ml/kg of body weight/hr

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Replacement fluid therapy is delivered to provide a urinary output of 30 ml/hr in older children or 1 to 2 ml/kg of body weight/hr for children weighing less than 30 kg (66 lb).Thirst is the result of a complex set of interactions and is not a reliable indicator of hydration.Thirst occurs late in dehydration.A falling hematocrit would be indicative of hemodilution.This may reflect fluid shifts and may not accurately represent fluid replacement therapy.Increased seepage from a burn wound would be indicative of increased output,not adequate hydration.

What Finding Is the Most Reliable Guide to the Adequacy