Electrical, Chemical and Thermal Burns · NCLEX Exam

What specific nursing consideration is critical in a patient with a circumferential electrical burn to an extremity?

  1. Defer neurovascular checks while the overlying skin appears intact.
  2. Perform frequent neurovascular checks and watch for compartment syndrome from deep tissue swelling.
  3. Limit care to the visible entry and exit wounds.
  4. Assume deep muscle is spared if the surface burn is small.
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Perform frequent neurovascular checks and watch for compartment syndrome from deep tissue swelling.

Electrical burns can cause deep muscle necrosis and swelling leading to compartment syndrome; frequent neurovascular checks are key.

Difficulty: Medium Question 8 of 19

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