American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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Prepare for the ABS QE with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question provides hints and explanations to enhance understanding. Start your journey to becoming a certified surgeon and tackle your exam with confidence!

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What is the formula for calculating fluid resuscitation in patients with burns greater than 20% Total Body Surface Area (BSA)?

2 cc/kg x %BSA
4 cc/kg x %BSA
6 cc/kg x %BSA
8 cc/kg x %BSA

The correct answer is: 4 cc/kg x %BSA

The formula for fluid resuscitation in patients with burns covering greater than 20% Total Body Surface Area (BSA) is indeed calculated as 4 cc/kg times the percentage of BSA burned. This formula is well-established in burn management and is used to guide the initial fluid resuscitation needed to stabilize these patients. Using this formula, the first half of the calculated volume is typically administered in the first 8 hours following the burn injury, while the remaining volume is given over the next 16 hours. This approach aims to maintain adequate organ perfusion and prevent hypovolemic shock, which can occur due to the rapid loss of intravascular volume in burn patients. The establishment of 4 cc/kg as the standard stems from clinical trials and guidelines, providing a balance between ensuring sufficient fluid for resuscitation while avoiding fluid overload, which can lead to complications. Other values, such as those proposed in the incorrect choices, may not align with the established protocols, and thus it would be crucial to adhere to the 4 cc/kg model in practice.