A patient is in the acute phase of burn care. Which of the following is associated with this stage of treatment? Select all that apply.
It begins 48 to 72 hours after a burn
There is a high risk of sepsis
It begins immediately after the burn injury
It begins with oliguria
Pain management is a priority
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct answers:
- ✅ It begins 48 to 72 hours after a burn
- ✅ There is a high risk of sepsis
- ✅ Pain management is a priority
Burn care is typically divided into several phases: emergent (or resuscitative), acute, and rehabilitative. The acute phase begins 48 to 72 hours after a burn injury, once fluid resuscitation has been achieved and diuresis begins, signaling the end of the emergent phase.
During the acute phase, the patient is at high risk for infection and sepsis, primarily due to the loss of the protective skin barrier and the presence of open wounds. Burn wounds create an ideal environment for microbial growth, making infection control and wound care critical components of management during this stage.
Pain management is a major priority during this phase. As nerve endings regenerate and wound debridement or dressing changes are performed, patients often experience significant pain. Proper pain control improves patient comfort, facilitates physical therapy, and supports the healing process.
The options “It begins immediately after the burn injury” and “It begins with oliguria” are incorrect. These are characteristic of the emergent phase, which starts immediately after the burn injury and can last for 48 to 72 hours. During this phase, there is significant fluid shift due to increased capillary permeability, often leading to oliguria (low urine output), hypovolemia, and shock.
In contrast, the acute phase is marked by the mobilization of fluids back into the intravascular space (diuresis), wound healing, infection control, and continued supportive care. Nutrition support also becomes essential, as the hypermetabolic state following burns increases the body’s energy demands.
In summary, the acute phase of burn care starts 48–72 hours post-injury, involves a high risk of sepsis, and requires careful pain management, distinguishing it from the initial resuscitative efforts of the emergent phase.
