Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 93%
Simulated
A nurse in an emergency department is reviewing the medical record of a client who has an extensive burn injury. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse expect?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Hyperkalemia is expected due to massive cell destruction releasing potassium into the extracellular compartment. Extensive burns cause metabolic acidosis (not alkalosis, A) due to tissue hypoxia and lactic acid buildup. Hemoglobin increases (not decreases, B) due to hemoconcentration from fluid loss. Hypovolemia (not hypervolemia, C) occurs due to fluid loss and increased capillary permeability.