What action will the nurse anticipate taking for a patient with a 25% TBSA burn and elevated Hct and Hgb levels?

In the context of a patient with a 25% total body surface area (TBSA) burn, experiencing elevated hematocrit (Hct) and hemoglobin (Hgb) levels, the nurse will anticipate increasing the rate of the ordered IV solution. This approach is crucial because burns can cause significant fluid loss, leading to hypovolemia and a subsequent increase in the concentration of red blood cells, which results in elevated Hct and Hgb levels.

By administering intravenous fluids, the nurse aims to restore intravascular volume, improve tissue perfusion, and counteract the effects of burn shock. Adequate fluid resuscitation is essential in managing burn patients, particularly those with a significant percentage of TBSA involved, to prevent complications and stabilize the patient's condition. It’s important to monitor the patient's response to fluid therapy closely to ensure that adequate hydration is achieved and maintained.

In contrast, while monitoring urine output and laboratory results is critical in managing burn patients, these actions do not directly address the immediate need to manage fluid balance and restore volume. Type and crossmatch for blood transfusion could be necessary later if the patient develops severe anemia or hematocrit continues to rise after fluid resuscitation, but it is not the immediate