ATLS Thermal and Electrical Injuries 3

Question 1

What is the initial treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning in a burn patient?

Accepted Answer

100% oxygen via non-rebreather mask

Answer

100% O2 reduces COHb half-life from 4-6 hours to 60-90 minutes. Start before COHb levels are available.

Question 2

Which burn patients meet criteria for transfer to a burn center?

Accepted Answer

Partial-thickness >10%, full-thickness, face/hands/feet/genitalia/joints, electrical/chemical, inhalation injury

Answer

ABA transfer criteria include multiple specific criteria covering size, depth, location, mechanism, and patient factors.

Question 3

Hydrofluoric acid burns require what specific treatment beyond water irrigation?

Accepted Answer

Topical and/or subcutaneous calcium gluconate

Answer

Fluoride ions bind calcium causing progressive destruction and potentially fatal hypocalcemia requiring calcium gluconate.

Question 4

In pediatric burn patients, the Rule of Nines is modified because of which anatomical difference?

Accepted Answer

Proportionally larger heads and smaller legs

Answer

Infants' heads are ~18% TBSA (vs. 9% adults), legs ~14% (vs. 18%). Use Lund-Browder chart.

Question 5

Which finding on fiberoptic bronchoscopy confirms inhalation injury?

Accepted Answer

Erythema, edema, and carbonaceous deposits in the airway

Answer

Bronchoscopy revealing mucosal erythema, edema, ulceration, and soot deposits confirms inhalation injury.

ATLS - Advanced Trauma Life Support Practice Test