What is the correct approach to managing burn pain?

The correct approach to managing burn pain involves the frequent use of ketamine, with reassessment occurring every 10-15 minutes. This strategy is effective because burn pain can be severe and persistent, often requiring continuous management rather than a one-time intervention. Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist that provides analgesic properties and can be particularly valuable in the treatment of acute pain like that associated with burns.

Using ketamine frequently allows healthcare providers to monitor the patient's pain levels and adjust the medication dosage as needed, providing optimal pain relief. The recommended reassessment interval ensures that any changes in the patient's condition are noted and addressed promptly, which is critical in managing burn pain effectively.

Other methods, such as administering pain medication only once, do not provide adequate pain control, as burn pain typically requires ongoing management. High doses of opioids given once a day may result in insufficient relief and can also lead to increased side effects. Lastly, the statement that ketamine should not be used disregards evidence supporting its efficacy in pain management, particularly in scenarios involving severe pain from burns.