A 30-year-old male patient was rescued from a burning house. However, he has sustained major burns on his anterior thorax and bilateral upper extremities. What is the initial treatment goal for this patient?
Explanation
• Burns to the anterior thorax and head put the patient at risk for airway injury. The airway should be monitored closely for narrowing or obstruction
• Restoring hemodynamic stability and initiating fluid resuscitation should be done next
• Infection prevention is an ongoing goal throughout treatment