Should burned and injured extremities be kept straight to optimize venous return?

To optimize venous return for burned and injured extremities, it is important to consider positioning to facilitate effective circulation. Keeping the extremities in a flexed position can help reduce swelling and promote venous return. When extremities are flexed, particularly at the joints, this positioning can help to enhance the flow of blood back to the heart, which is especially crucial in situations involving trauma or burns, where circulation may be compromised.

Flexing the joints also aids in reducing pressure on the injured areas and helps manage pain. It allows for better movement and functionality, which can be essential in the recovery process. In contrast, completely straightening the extremities may create tension and could exacerbate swelling or discomfort, ultimately hindering recovery.

Therefore, the approach of keeping burned and injured extremities flexed rather than straight, along with maintaining an appropriate elevation when necessary, aligns with best practices in managing such injuries and promoting better outcomes for patients.