Pathophysiology of Burn Injury · NCLEX Exam

What is the primary reason for intravascular hypovolemia in the immediate period after a major thermal burn injury (>30% TBSA)?

  1. Direct loss of urine caused by acute kidney failure after the burn
  2. Capillary leak with plasma shifting into the interstitial space
  3. External hemorrhage from areas of skin breakage at the burn site
  4. Rapid conversion of circulating fluid into fat within the tissues
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Capillary leak with plasma shifting into the interstitial space

Burn injury triggers increased capillary permeability and plasma leakage into interstitial space, causing intravascular volume loss and hemoconcentration.

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