An introduction to burns
Burns are common.
Most are minor and are managed in the
community or accident
and emergency departments, but some can be devastating to the patient.1
Partial thickness burns are rarely life-threatening but morbidity can be extensive,2 and the focus of management should be improved outcomes.3
Partial-thickness burns can be associated with:
- Pain – in some cases severe
- Increased risk of infection
- Scarring and functional impairment3
- Psychological trauma for the patient2,3
The AIMS OF BURN MANAGEMENT are to:4
- Avoid infection
- Reduce pain
- Promote effective wound healing
- Minimize scarring and psychological trauma
- Restore or replace damaged skin and normal movement
References [+]
- Hettiaratchy S, Dziewulski P. ABC of burns. Introduction. BMJ. 2004;328(7452):1366-1368.
- Vloemans AF, Soesman AM, Kreis RW, Middelkoop E. A newly developed hydrofibre dressing, in the treatment of partial-thickness burns. Burns. 2001;27(2):167-173.
- van Baar ME, Essink-Bot ML, Oen IM, Dokter J, Boxma H, van Beeck EF. Functional outcome after burns: a review. Burns. 2006;32(1):1-9.
- Morgan ED, Bledsoe SC, Barker J. Ambulatory management of burns. Am Fam Physician. 2000;62(9):2015-2026, 2029-2030, 2032.