A patient has partial-thickness burns to both legs and portions of his trunk. Which of the following I.V. fluids are given first?
A. Albumin
B. D5W
C. Lactated Ringer’s solution
D. 0.9% sodium chloride solution with 2 mEq of potassium per 100 ml
Correct Answer: C. Lactated Ringer’s solution
Lactated Ringer’s solution replaces lost sodium and corrects metabolic acidosis, both of which commonly occur following a burn.
Option A: Albumin is used as an adjunct therapy, not a primary fluid replacement.
Option B: Dextrose isn’t given to burn patients during the first 24 hours because it can cause pseudodiabetes.
Option D: The patient is hyperkalemic from the potassium shift from the intracellular space to the plasma, so potassium would be detrimental.