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.