Which condition indicates that a patient is moving out of the emergent phase of burn injury?

The indication that a patient is moving out of the emergent phase of burn injury is reflected in the occurrence of diuresis and a decrease in hematocrit levels. During the emergent phase, which can last up to 72 hours post-injury, the body experiences significant fluid shifts due to increased capillary permeability. This results in excess fluid in the interstitial space, leading to edema and hemodilution—characterized by elevated hematocrit levels due to the loss of intravascular volume.

As the patient transitions from the emergent phase to the fluid resuscitation phase, re-establishment of normal kidney function is indicated by diuresis. This signifies that the fluid overload is being managed effectively and that the kidneys are starting to recover and excrete excess fluid, which means that the patient's overall status is improving.

Additionally, hematocrit levels decrease during this phase because the plasma volume has increased due to the administration of intravenous fluids during resuscitation, indicating that the red blood cells are diluted. This combination of diuresis and a decrease in hematocrit is crucial for monitoring the recovery process in burn patients and signifies that they are moving towards stabilization and recovery.