The nurse notes that a patient with third-degree burns is demonstrating a reduction in his serum potassium level. The nurse realizes that this finding is consistent with which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A reduction in serum potassium level in a patient with third-degree burns is consistent with the resolution of burn shock. During burn shock, there is a shift of potassium from the intracellular space to the extracellular space, causing hyperkalemia. As burn shock resolves, potassium is reabsorbed into the cells, causing hypokalemia.

The Nurse Notes That a Patient with Third-Degree Burns Is