Clinical value of urinary sodium and potassium content determinations in severely burned patients.

In 15 severely burned patients the concentrations of sodium and potassium were determined in 605 urine samples. Concentrations of both electrolytes were reduced. A decrease in urinary sodium concentration below 10 mEq/l, persisting during several days, was an unfavorable prognostic sign. Low urinary potassium concentrations (below 10-20 mEq/24 hrs) were interpreted as an evidence of cellular potassium depletion.