HESI Basic Care of Dying Patient Related

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Which of the following patients best fits the criteria for a critical burn?

  • A. A 10-year-old patient with superficial burns over 60% of the body
  • B. A 15-year-old patient with full-thickness burns on the left upper/lower arm, non-circumferential
  • C. A 60-year-old patient with partial-thickness burns across 25% of the body, not involving the hands, feet, face, or genitals
  • D. A 20-year-old patient with partial-thickness burns on 25% of the body, not including the hands, feet, face, or genitals
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because a critical burn is determined by the percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) affected. In this case, a 10-year-old patient with superficial burns over 60% of the body meets the criteria for a critical burn due to the extensive TBSA involvement. Superficial burns over 60% of the body can lead to significant fluid loss, infection risk, and systemic complications.

Choice B is incorrect because full-thickness burns on a specific area of the arm, even if full-thickness, are not as extensive as 60% TBSA involvement.

Choice C is incorrect as partial-thickness burns across 25% of the body, not involving critical areas, do not meet the criteria for a critical burn based on TBSA.

Choice D is also incorrect as partial-thickness burns on 25% of the body, not involving critical areas, do not meet the criteria for a critical burn based on TBSA.