During the shock phase of burn management, what happens to potassium levels?

During the shock phase of burn management, potassium levels typically increase due to the impact of cellular changes associated with tissue injury and the stress response.

When burns occur, particularly extensive burns, there is cell destruction and lysis, which causes intracellular potassium to leak into the extracellular space. This results in hyperkalemia, or elevated potassium levels in the blood. Additionally, the stress response from the trauma can lead to increased release of potassium from damaged cells, further contributing to the rise in serum potassium levels.

Monitoring potassium levels is crucial during the shock phase, as elevated potassium can have significant implications for cardiac function and overall metabolic status. Proper management of fluid resuscitation and electrolyte balance is essential in burn patients to prevent complications associated with high potassium levels.