Burn victims often present with complex, life-threatening complications that require immediate recognition and targeted intervention. Match each clinical presentation of a burn or inhalation injury to the most appropriate next step in management or specific antidote.
- A patient rescued from a house fire presents with hoarseness, wheezing, and carbonaceous sputum in the oropharynx.Immediate endotracheal intubation
- A patient with a deep, circumferential burn of the right lower extremity develops severe pain, paresthesias, and absent dorsalis pedis pulses.Bedside escharotomy
- A patient exposed to a residential fire presents with confusion and headache; pulse oximetry reads 99%, but carboxyhemoglobin levels are markedly elevated.Administration of 100% oxygen via non-rebreather mask
- A patient rescued from burning synthetic plastics presents with severe lactic acidosis, coma, and a faint bitter almond odor on their breath.Administration of hydroxocobalamin
Answer
The correct matches pair airway burns with intubation, circumferential extremity burns with escharotomy, carbon monoxide poisoning with 100% oxygen, and cyanide toxicity with hydroxocobalamin.
Each clinical presentation is a distinct, life-threatening consequence of burns or smoke inhalation requiring a specific, time-sensitive intervention. Thermal injury to the upper airway requires immediate intubation. Circumferential burns causing ischemia require escharotomy. Carbon monoxide poisoning requires high-flow oxygen. Cyanide toxicity requires specific antidote therapy.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Management of acute burn complications and inhalation toxicities
Estimated Time:1m 30s