Burns and Skin Layers

The outermost layer of skin, composed of 5 sub-layers, responsible for protecting the body from external factors and shedding dead cells.

This is the outermost zone of a burn, where blood flow is increased. It's like a natural response to inflammation, where the body sends blood to the injured area.

The middle layer of skin, containing blood vessels, nerves, and glands. It plays a critical role in thermoregulation and regenerating the epidermis.

In this zone of a burn, blood flow is reduced, but not completely stopped. This is a dangerous zone, as prolonged lack of blood flow can lead to tissue death.

A burn affecting only the epidermis, characterized by redness, pain, and swelling. It heals quickly without scarring.

The innermost zone of a burn, where tissue has already died due to lack of blood flow. This area requires surgical intervention.

A burn affecting both the epidermis and dermis, resulting in blisters, pain, and possible scarring. Healing time varies depending on the depth of the burn.

These are chemical messengers released by the body in response to injury, inflammation, or infection. They play a critical role in the body's immune response.

A burn affecting 30% or more of the body surface area can lead to a systemic response, meaning that the effects extend beyond the site of the burn.

The deepest type of burn affecting all layers of skin, reaching the subcutaneous tissue or even bone and muscle. It is characterized by black, leathery, and waxy appearance.

The area of a burn where tissue is irreversibly damaged due to coagulation (clotting) of proteins. This area is not salvageable.

Increased permeability in blood vessels leads to fluid leaking out and accumulating in surrounding tissues. This can cause swelling and decrease blood volume.

The area surrounding the zone of coagulation in a burn, where tissue perfusion (blood supply) is impaired but still potentially recoverable.

Reduced blood flow to the extremities and organs can cause damage and complications.

Low blood pressure due to loss of fluid and decreased heart function can lead to organ damage.

Refers to the body's ability to regulate its temperature, a crucial function of the dermis.

Decrease in blood flow to organs caused by reduced blood volume and pressure. This occurs because burns demand more fluid to help with healing, leaving less for regular bodily functions.

The body's metabolic rate increases significantly (up to 3 times normal) after a burn injury. This means the body is burning energy much quicker, requiring more resources to maintain function.

Increased glucose production in the body, often due to the burn damage.

Burn patients experience resistance to insulin, meaning their cells cannot effectively absorb glucose from the bloodstream.

High blood sugar levels due to increased glucose production and poor insulin sensitivity in burn patients.

The airway management protocol for burn patients, prioritizing the assessment of the airway for any obstruction or distress.

The process of assessing burn severity by looking at the affected area and the depth of tissue damage.

Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, occurs in burn patients due to the body's abnormal glucose production and resistance to insulin, leading to decreased glucose uptake and clearance.

During burn assessment, it's crucial to monitor vital signs, including blood glucose levels, as this might indicate hyperglycemia. Use arterial lines, central venous pressure lines, and gas analysis to get accurate measurements.

The brain heavily relies on oxygen, consuming about 20% of the body's total oxygen supply. Therefore, oxygen deficiency can lead to a decreased level of consciousness in burn patients, as the brain is deprived of its essential fuel.

Burns can lead to a systemic inflammatory response with the release of cytokines, causing increased capillary permeability. This results in fluid loss from the blood vessels into surrounding tissues, leading to a decrease in blood volume and potentially low blood pressure.

After a burn, monitoring blood pressure is critical as fluid loss can lead to systemic hypotension, a dangerous drop in blood pressure. This can affect vital organs and worsen burn complications.

A breathing difficulty marked by a high-pitched whistling sound, often heard during inhalation, commonly associated with airway obstruction.

A sound produced during breathing, especially during exhalation, caused by narrowed or obstructed airways.

A series of rapid breaths, usually shallow and short,often a sign of respiratory distress or difficulty breathing.

The buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood, often due to inadequate breathing or impaired gas exchange in the lungs, leading to acidity in the blood.

A condition characterized by low blood oxygen levels, often occurring during respiratory distress or inadequate oxygen delivery.

A condition characterized by a decrease in blood volume, leading to a drop in blood pressure and potentially affecting organ function.

A dangerous combination of three medical conditions: hypothermia, coagulation problems, and metabolic acidosis, often leading to death.