A patient with third-degree burns has a urine output of 40 cc per hour after fluid resuscitation. What does this finding indicate?

A urine output of 40 cc per hour in a patient with third-degree burns after fluid resuscitation can be assessed in the context of burn care management. In burn patients, particularly those with extensive injuries like third-degree burns, monitoring urine output is critical because it serves as an important indicator of kidney function and fluid balance.

Typically, for adults, a urine output of 30 to 50 cc per hour is considered acceptable, particularly in the context of major burn injuries. The fluid resuscitation protocol often aims to achieve a minimum urine output of at least 30 cc per hour to ensure adequate kidney perfusion.

Therefore, in this case, a urine output of 40 cc per hour aligns with the expected range after proper fluid management following significant burns. This finding suggests that the patient's kidneys are still functioning adequately and may not necessarily reflect dehydration or over-hydration issues. It's essential to continue closely monitoring the patient for any changes in urine output and overall fluid status, but at this moment, the output appears to be within an acceptable range given the severity of the burns.