A 30-year-old patient was rescued from a burning house. However, the patient has sustained major burns on the anterior thorax, head 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.

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