ATI Pediatrics Test Bank Related

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The nurse provides care for a client with deep partial-thickness burns. What could cause a reduced hematocrit (Hct) in this client?

  • A. Hypoalbuminemia with hemoconcentration
  • B. Volume overload with hemodilution
  • C. Metabolic acidosis
  • D. Lack of erythropoeitin factor
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A reduced hematocrit (Hct) in a client with deep partial-thickness burns can be primarily caused by volume overload with hemodilution. In patients with burns, there is an initial shift of fluid from the intravascular space to the interstitial space, leading to a decreased intravascular volume. In response to this hypovolemia, there is an increased release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and aldosterone, resulting in retention of water and sodium. This volume overload leads to hemodilution, where the proportion of red blood cells to plasma decreases, causing a reduction in hematocrit levels. This scenario is a common occurrence in clients with burn injuries and helps explain the reduced hematocrit in this client.