What is the primary goal during the resuscitation phase of burn care?

The primary goal during the resuscitation phase of burn care is fluid resuscitation. This phase, which typically occurs immediately after the burn injury, focuses on stabilizing the patient and preventing shock due to the large fluid loss that occurs with extensive burns.

In burn injuries, particularly those that cover a significant percentage of body surface area, patients can experience rapid intravascular volume depletion. This depletion can lead to a condition known as hypovolemic shock, which can be life-threatening. Therefore, adequate fluid resuscitation is crucial for maintaining blood pressure, enhancing tissue perfusion, and ensuring that vital organs are adequately supplied with oxygenated blood.

The goal of fluid resuscitation is usually guided by established protocols, such as the Parkland formula, which helps clinicians calculate the amount of fluid needed based on the size of the burn and the patient's body weight. Proper fluid management not only helps stabilize the patient but also sets the stage for subsequent interventions like infection prevention, wound care, and pain management, which are essential but are secondary to the immediate need for fluid resuscitation in the critical early hours following a burn injury.