Why is the administration of 100% oxygen critical in burn management?

The administration of 100% oxygen is critical in burn management primarily because it aids in the elimination of carbon monoxide from the body. In cases of fire-related injuries, carbon monoxide can be produced and inhaled, leading to carbon monoxide poisoning. This gas binds with hemoglobin in the blood much more effectively than oxygen does, which reduces the blood's capacity to carry oxygen and can result in hypoxia.

By providing 100% oxygen, the partial pressure of oxygen surrounding the carbon monoxide increases, which helps displace the carbon monoxide from hemoglobin, allowing it to be exhaled out of the body. Therefore, ensuring that high concentrations of oxygen are available not only alleviates the symptoms of carbon monoxide toxicity but also supports the overall oxygenation of tissues that may be compromised due to burn injuries.

This significant role of oxygen in combating carbon monoxide's effects emphasizes the importance of administering 100% oxygen promptly when managing burn patients who are at risk of inhalation injury.