Which electrolyte disturbance is most likely immediately after a major burn injury?
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Correct answer: Hyperkalemia from cell lysis releasing intracellular potassium
Deep burns cause cell damage and potassium release from intracellular space, leading to early hyperkalemia as an electrolyte disturbance.
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More Pathophysiology of Burn Injury questions
- Why is the extracellular sodium concentration often increased in early burn shock?
- What happens to myocardial function in burn shock, even after adequate fluid resuscitation?
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- In the microcirculation after burn injury, which change contributes to fluid extravasation?
- What characterizes the systemic vascular response in the early phase of major burn?
- Why is fluid resuscitation so time-sensitive in the pathophysiology of burn shock?