Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 85%
Full-length
Which one of the following is considered a reliable indicator for assessing the adequacy of fluid resuscitation in a 3-year-old child who suffered partial- and full-thickness burns to 25% of her body?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Urinary output is a reliable indicator of renal perfusion, which in turn indicates that fluid resuscitation is adequate. IV fluids are adjusted based on the urinary output of the child during fluid resuscitation. Edema is an indication of increased capillary permeability following a burn injury. Hypertension is an indicator of fluid volume excess. Fontanelles close by 18 months of age.