Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What does a patient primarily lose when they experience a burn?

1. Electrolytes

2. Plasma

3. Blood

4. Skin cells

The correct answer is: Plasma

When a patient experiences a burn, the primary loss is plasma. Plasma is the liquid component of blood that contains water, electrolytes, proteins, and nutrients. Burns cause damage to both the skin and underlying tissues, leading to an increased permeability of blood vessels, which allows plasma to leak into surrounding tissues. This loss of plasma can result in fluid imbalance, decreased blood volume, and potentially lead to shock if not properly managed. While other components such as electrolytes and skin cells are affected by burns, they are secondary to the significant loss of plasma that directly impacts a patient’s overall fluid status and hemodynamics. The loss of skin cells occurs but is not as critical in the immediate context of fluid loss and its effects on the body's systems.