which statement is true of burns?
select all that apply
a. burns have systemic effects
b. burns enhance tissue perfusion
c. burns are not considered a type of trauma
d. smoke inhalation injuries are considered a type of burn
e. burns can be cause by chemical or electrical agents
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answers are:
a. Burns have systemic effects
e. Burns can be caused by chemical or electrical agents
Explanation:
Burns have systemic effects (a)
Burns affect not only the local tissue but also have significant systemic consequences. They can cause a systemic inflammatory response that can lead to shock, organ failure, and death if not managed properly. The severity of the burn determines the extent of these systemic effects. For example, severe burns can cause hypovolemic shock due to fluid loss, while the inflammatory response can lead to complications such as infection or organ dysfunction. The body’s immune system is also activated in response to burn injuries, further complicating recovery.
Burns can be caused by chemical or electrical agents (e)
Burns are not limited to heat-related causes. Chemical burns occur when harmful chemicals come into contact with the skin or mucous membranes, leading to tissue damage. These burns depend on the nature of the chemical, its concentration, and the duration of exposure. Electrical burns are caused by electrical current passing through the body, which can cause severe internal damage even if the external skin appears only mildly affected. Electrical burns may also involve muscle or nerve damage, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias can occur due to disruption of the heart’s electrical activity.
Why the other options are incorrect:
Burns enhance tissue perfusion (b)
Burns typically do the opposite by damaging blood vessels, leading to fluid leakage and decreased tissue perfusion, especially in severe burns. This can contribute to the development of shock and inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues.
Burns are not considered a type of trauma (c)
Burns are classified as trauma. Trauma refers to physical injury caused by external sources, and burns are a form of physical injury that result from heat, chemical, electrical, or radiation exposure.
Smoke inhalation injuries are considered a type of burn (d)
While smoke inhalation injuries are associated with burns, they are not technically considered a type of burn. Smoke inhalation can cause respiratory damage and complications like carbon monoxide poisoning, but it involves damage to the airways and lungs rather than the skin itself.