CBRN Disaster Preparedness, Triage & Burn Center Transfer

Question 1

Which patient meets American Burn Association criteria for referral to a burn center?

Accepted Answer

A partial-thickness burn involving the hands

Answer

ABA referral criteria include burns involving the face, hands, feet, genitalia, perineum, or major joints, as well as full-thickness burns, partial-thickness burns of 10% TBSA or more, and electrical, chemical, or inhalation injuries.

Question 2

Using the 'rule of tens' for initial resuscitation in an austere or mass-casualty setting, what is the starting fluid rate for a 70-kg adult with a 40% TBSA burn?

Accepted Answer

400 mL/hr

Answer

The rule of tens sets the initial rate at %TBSA × 10 mL/hr for adults weighing 40–80 kg, so 40 × 10 = 400 mL/hr. The rate is then titrated to urine output.

Question 3

In a mass-casualty event with overwhelmed resources, a patient with very extensive burns and severe inhalation injury is most likely to be triaged as which category?

Accepted Answer

Expectant, receiving comfort measures while resources go to survivable patients

Answer

Crisis standards of care prioritize the greatest good for the greatest number. Patients whose injuries carry very low survival probability may be classed as expectant, receiving comfort care and reassessment if resources allow.

Question 4

A patient is being prepared for transfer to a burn center. Which action is appropriate before transfer?

Accepted Answer

Secure the airway as indicated, establish IV access, cover wounds with clean dry sheets, and keep the patient warm

Answer

Transfer preparation focuses on airway, breathing, circulation, resuscitation, warmth, and pain control. Wounds are covered with clean dry dressings. Heavy topical agents obscure the burn center's assessment, and transfer should not be delayed for debridement.

Question 5

A patient contaminated with an unknown chemical agent arrives at the emergency department. What should happen before treatment inside the facility?

Accepted Answer

Decontamination by removing clothing and rinsing, with staff wearing appropriate PPE

Answer

Decontamination at the entry point protects staff and other patients from secondary contamination. Removing clothing eliminates most contaminant, and responders use appropriate PPE.

(CBRN) Certified Burn Registered Nurse Practice Test

(CBRN) Certified Burn Registered Nurse Practice Test

CBRN Disaster Preparedness, Triage & Burn Center Transfer