What does the term "fluid creep" refer to in burn resuscitation?

Fluid creep refers to the phenomenon of excessive fluid administration during the resuscitation phase of treating burn patients. In burn management, especially following significant injuries, there is a crucial balance in fluid replacement to ensure patients are adequately hydrated and to maintain circulation while avoiding complications. When guidelines suggest a certain volume based on the patient's weight or the extent of their burns, sometimes healthcare providers may administer more fluids than needed. This over-resuscitation can lead to complications, one of which is edema, where excess fluid accumulates in the tissues, potentially leading to further issues such as compartment syndrome or increased pressure in the burned areas.

Understanding fluid creep is vital for healthcare providers to ensure they adhere to the appropriate protocols for fluid resuscitation. This ensures they compensate adequately for the fluid loss from burns without overwhelming the patient's circulatory system with unnecessary fluids. By monitoring the clinical parameters and adjusting fluid administration accordingly, clinicians can mitigate the risks associated with fluid creep.