When monitoring a burn client receiving topical mafenide acetate (Sulfamylon), which symptom indicates a systemic effect?

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Mafenide acetate, commonly known as Sulfamylon, is a topical antimicrobial agent often used in the treatment of burns. When monitoring a burn client receiving this medication, it is important to be aware of potential systemic effects that can arise from its use.

Hyperventilation indicates a systemic effect, as it is often a response to metabolic acidosis or respiratory issues that can occur when the drug is absorbed at significant levels into the bloodstream. Mafenide acetate can inhibit carbonic anhydrase, which may lead to metabolic acidosis, thereby prompting the body to increase respiration to compensate for the acid-base imbalance. Thus, the presence of hyperventilation suggests that the medication is having an effect beyond the local application site and is impacting the overall physiological state of the client.

In contrast, elevated blood pressure, local pain, and local rash at the burn site are typically related to the local effects of the medication or the stress response to the burn itself, rather than an indication of systemic absorption or metabolic effects. Elevated blood pressure can result from anxiety or pain but does not directly indicate a systemic effect of mafenide acetate. Local pain and rash are common side effects that do not imply systemic toxicity. Overall, hyperventilation serves as a more distinct signal

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