For a patient with extensive electrical burns, which assessment should be prioritized by the nurse?

In the case of a patient with extensive electrical burns, prioritizing the placement on a cardiac monitor is crucial due to the risk of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias that can result from electrical injuries. Electrical burns can cause damage not only to the skin and underlying tissues but also to the heart. The conduction system of the heart may be affected by the electrical current, leading to abnormal heart rhythms, which can be potentially fatal.

Monitoring the heart allows for early detection of any changes in the heart's rhythm, providing an opportunity for prompt intervention. This proactive approach is vital because cardiac complications can arise even days after the initial injury due to electrolyte imbalances or direct myocardial damage.

Assessing oral temperature, checking potassium levels, and assessing for pain at contact points are also important assessments; however, they do not take precedence over immediate cardiac monitoring in this context. While electrolytes like potassium can be affected and should be monitored subsequently, the immediate risk of cardiac instability from an electrical burn makes continuous cardiac monitoring the priority for this patient.