Dr. Taryn Travis, a critical care specialist in burn treatment, and Dr. Mack Drake, an expert in burn resuscitation, dive into the intricacies of managing burn patients. They discuss the physiology of burn shock and the critical approaches to fluid resuscitation. Challenges like inhalation injuries and infection management are highlighted, along with the importance of clear communication with families. The episode also touches on nutritional needs and advanced practices for treating complications, ensuring comprehensive burn care in critical settings.
Resuscitation in burn patients requires dynamic assessment and adaptable protocols rather than strict adherence to standard formulas like the four cc's rule.
Effective communication with families is essential, focusing on transparent discussions about treatment priorities and realistic outcomes based on evidence.
Deep dives
Understanding Burn Shock and Resuscitation
Burn shock is characterized by significant endothelial damage, which leads to fluid loss from the intravascular space. The process of resuscitation is dynamic and requires continual assessment rather than rigid adherence to formulas like the four cc's rule. Instead of relying solely on standard metrics, incorporating tools such as invasive hemodynamic monitoring and ultrasound can provide more accurate guidance in managing fluid resuscitation. This evolving understanding underscores the necessity of adaptable protocols to effectively stabilize burn patients.
Role of Colloids and Pressors in Resuscitation
The use of colloids, particularly fresh frozen plasma (FFP), has gained traction in addressing endothelial issues during burn resuscitation. Pressors are considered a last resort for managing shock and might indicate that the resuscitation is off track. They should not be the first-line response to inadequate urine output or blood pressure management, as they can mask underlying problems. The focus instead should be on identifying the causes of poor resuscitation, such as undiagnosed inhalation injury or acute traumatic injuries.
Recognizing and Managing Complications
Monitoring for complications such as burn wound infection or organ dysfunction is essential in the context of burn recovery. Signs like fever, ileus, and hypotension can indicate an evolving infection, warranting the need for prompt diagnostics and possibly early surgical intervention. Efficient management of these complications involves not only tracking lab values but also clinical signs that may not be textbook indicators. Understanding the dynamics of infection in burn patients necessitates vigilance beyond initial resuscitation efforts.
Family Communication and Prognostic Discussions
Effective communication with families of burn patients is critical, especially given the unique and often overwhelming nature of burn care. Breaking down the treatment process into manageable segments helps patients and their families comprehend the immediate priorities. Honest discussions about mortality and potential outcomes should be based on evidence and relevant prognostic tools. This transparency not only prepares the family for the long-term journey but also allows them to engage with the care team effectively.
Join Dr. Tatiana Cardenas, and Dr. Samantha Tarras as they speak with guests Dr. Taryn Travis and Dr. Mack Drake. They will discuss the physiology of burn shock, the intricacies of burn resuscitation and the challenges of burn care. Topics include markers of resuscitation, use of pressors, inhalation injury, infection, discussions with family and more!
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