During the flow phase after a burn injury, which of the following occurs?

During the flow phase after a burn injury, which of the following occurs?

• A. Decreased cardiac output
• B. Increased body temperature
• C. Increased urinary excretion of nitrogen, sulphur, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium
• D. Increased cardiac output

Answer: (D)

The flow phase after a burn is a hyperdynamic, hypermetabolic period in which cardiac output increases to meet the higher tissue oxygen demand and metabolic rate. Inflammation and circulating catecholamines drive a stronger heart pump and faster heart rate, so more blood is delivered to tissues and healing sites. This rise in cardiac output helps sustain organ perfusion despite ongoing metabolic stress and supports the elevated energy expenditure typical of this phase. While fever and nutrient losses (like nitrogen) can occur during this time, the most defining change is the increased cardiac output that characterizes the flow phase.

The flow phase after a burn is a hyperdynamic, hypermetabolic period in which cardiac output increases to meet the higher tissue oxygen demand and metabolic rate. Inflammation and circulating catecholamines drive a stronger heart pump and faster heart rate, so more blood is delivered to tissues and healing sites. This rise in cardiac output helps sustain organ perfusion despite ongoing metabolic stress and supports the elevated energy expenditure typical of this phase. While fever and nutrient losses (like nitrogen) can occur during this time, the most defining change is the increased cardiac output that characterizes the flow phase.