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Major burn resuscitation — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateTraumaMajor burn resuscitationMCCQE Part 1

A 42-year-old man has circumferential partial-thickness burns to both arms and the anterior chest after a house fire. He is hoarse and has soot around the mouth. Blood pressure is 100/62 mmHg and oxygen saturation is 96% on high-flow oxygen. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: BPerform early endotracheal intubation and begin warmed crystalloid resuscitation

Hoarseness and soot after an enclosed-space burn suggest inhalation injury, and early airway control is needed before oedema progresses. Significant burns also require fluid resuscitation guided by urine output. Normal oxygen saturation does not exclude impending airway compromise or carbon monoxide exposure.

Reference: https://emergencycarebc.ca/clinical_resource/clinical-summary/burns/; https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/hp/trauma/if-hp-trauma-burn-management-guideline.pdf