A newly admitted patient has sustained deep partial-thickness burns to the face and trunk. Which of the following abnormal values can the nurse expect during the emergent phase?

Explanation

• Due to the fluid shift after a burn injury, the blood becomes concentrated and the hematocrit will be elevated.

• Heart rate will increase (not decrease) due to hypovolemia associated with fluid shift (third spacing).

• Potassium levels will increase along with cellular destruction.

• Hemoglobin levels will be decreased due to the hemolysis of red blood cells.

• Lactic acid level will increase due to impaired tissue perfusion, not decrease.

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