Diagnostic studies in Burn
1. Complete blood count (CBC)
Increase hematocrit
Leukocytosis
2. ABG analysis
Acidosis occur because reduced renal function and loss of compensatory respiratory mechanism. Decreased PaO2, Increased PaCO2.
3. Carboxyhemoglobin (COHb)
Elevation of more than 15% indicates carbon monoxide poisoning/inhalation injury.
4. Serum Electrolytes
Potassium level elevated because of injured tissue/RBC destruction.
Hypokalemia occur when diuresis start
5. Alkaline phosphatase
Elevated because of interstitials fluid shifts/ impairment of sodium pump.
6. Serum glucose
Elevated reflects stress response.
7. Serum albumin
Albumin/ globulin ratio result loss of protein edema fluid.
8. Urine
Presence of albumin, hemoglobin (Hb) and myoglobin indicates deep tissue damage and protein loss. Reddish black colour of urine is due to presence of myoglobin.
9. Chest X-ray
For inhalation injury
10. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy
Diagnosing extent of inhalation injury, include; edema, hemorrhage/ ulceration of upper respiratory tract.
11. Flow volume loop
For inhalation injury
12. Lung scan
Determine extent of inhalation injury
13. ECG
Signs of myocardial ischemia/dysrhythmia occur with electric burn.
14. Photograps of Burns
Provides documentation of burn wound and comparative baseline to evaluate healing.
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