What is the purpose of monitoring urinary output in burn victims?

Monitoring urinary output in burn victims serves as an essential indicator of fluid resuscitation effectiveness and renal perfusion. After a burn injury, there may be significant fluid loss through damaged skin and increased capillary permeability, which can lead to hypovolemia. Adequate fluid resuscitation is crucial to restore circulating blood volume and maintain kidney function.

Urinary output is a reliable measurement because it reflects the kidneys' ability to filter blood and excrete waste. In burn patients, maintaining a certain urinary output (usually 0.5 to 1.0 mL/kg/hour) is a goal to ensure that the kidneys are appropriately perfused and functioning. A decrease in urine output can signal inadequate fluid resuscitation, suggesting that the patient may be at risk for renal impairment due to decreased blood flow, which can occur in the setting of hypovolemia. Thus, regular monitoring of urinary output helps healthcare providers assess and adjust fluid management strategies to optimize patient outcomes.