Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

In managing burn patients, what is the recommended solution for irrigation?

1. Tap water

2. Hydrogen peroxide

3. Normal saline

4. Antiseptic solution

The correct answer is: Normal saline

In the management of burn patients, normal saline is often the preferred solution for irrigation. This is primarily because normal saline is isotonic, which helps to maintain the osmotic balance in the tissue. When treating burns, it’s essential to cleanse the affected area while minimizing pain and irritation, and normal saline accomplishes this without introducing additional harm or chemical irritation. Normal saline also helps to wash away debris and potential contaminants from the burn site, reducing the risk of infection. It is well-tolerated by the tissue and promotes a healing environment. Additionally, in circumstances involving larger burns or significant tissue damage, normal saline can assist with fluid resuscitation, which is crucial for preventing shock and maintaining adequate circulation. In contrast, tap water, while sometimes used, may not be sterile and can introduce pathogens, potentially increasing the likelihood of infection. Hydrogen peroxide is too harsh and can damage healthy cells, which is counterproductive in promoting healing. Antiseptic solutions may contain chemicals that can irritate the burn area or delay healing, making them less suitable for initial irrigation of burns. Therefore, normal saline is favored for its compatibility with biological tissues and its effectiveness in reducing the risk of infection while promoting healing in burn patients.