National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which topical agent would be the most effective in controlling infection for a patient with a thick eschar from a full thickness burn?

1. Sulfamylon (mafenide acetate)

2. Silver nitrate

3. Silver sulfadiazine

4. Amphotericin B

The correct answer is: Sulfamylon (mafenide acetate)

The most effective topical agent for controlling infection in a patient with a thick eschar from a full thickness burn is Sulfamylon (mafenide acetate). This is largely due to its broad-spectrum antibacterial properties and its ability to penetrate eschar. Sulfamylon is particularly effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is a common pathogen associated with burn infections. Additionally, it can diffuse through necrotic tissue, making it advantageous when dealing with thick eschar where other agents may not reach the affected areas as effectively. Other agents, while useful in certain contexts, do not match the efficacy of Sulfamylon for this specific scenario. Silver nitrate is effective for superficial infections but may cause electrolyte imbalances and does not penetrate thick eschar as well. Silver sulfadiazine is a good option for preventing infections in partial-thickness burns but is not as effective in deep burns with significant eschar. Amphotericin B is primarily an antifungal agent used for systemic fungal infections and is not indicated for topical use in burn patients. Thus, Sulfamylon stands out as the most suitable choice in this case.