Inhalation injury in the burn patient

Patients who survive to hospital admission after bums with inhalation injury face a difficult and potentially prolonged course of treatment in the burn center. Continuing survival and especially functional outcome hinges on the patient's receiving comprehensive, well-coordinated care from an interdisciplinary team of skilled health care providers. The best care plan combines close monitoring of vital organ/tissue perfusion indicators, aggressive management of pulmonary compromise, and scrupulous attention to all details of nursing care. Many patients suffer complications from their injuries or treatment, and not all survive. Those who do may face prolonged and painful therapies on the way to recovery. The expert nurse managing and caring for this unfortunate population faces tremendous clinical challenges but also has the opportunity and satisfaction of helping each patient achieve the best possible outcome.