The principal dangers with burns are infection and shock.

• A. Bleeding and infection
• B. Infection and shock
• C. Dehydration and swelling
• D. Pain and infection

Answer: (B)

Burn injuries threaten the body in two major ways: the skin barrier is broken, which greatly raises the risk of infection, and the damaged vessels leak fluid, which can lead to shock from a sudden drop in circulating blood volume. Infection becomes likely because bacteria can invade through the open wound, especially with larger burns. Shock is a critical systemic threat because reduced blood flow compromises organ function and can be life-threatening if not managed promptly. While dehydration can accompany burns and swelling is a common local response, neither represents the principal immediate danger in the same clear, systemic way as infection and shock.