Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Comparative Study
An assessment of burn care professionals' attitudes to major burn.
The resuscitation of severe burn remains a controversial area within the burn care profession. There is ongoing debate as to what percentage burn is associated with a sufficient quality of life to support initial resuscitation efforts. We conducted a survey of delegates at the 39th Annual Meeting of the British Burns Association (2005), regarding attitudes towards resuscitation following major burns. ⋯ Regardless of TBSA affected, 16% would not wish resuscitation if they had full thickness facial burns, a further 10% did not want resuscitation if both their hands and faces were affected. Our survey demonstrates the diversity of personal preference amongst burn care professionals. This would suggest that a unifying philosophy regarding the resuscitation of extensive burns will remain elusive.
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To determine the number of patients attending an Emergency Department with burns and to establish the epidemiology, management and outcome of these cases. ⋯ Burns remain a relatively uncommon presenting complaint in the Emergency Department, even in a hospital accepting tertiary referrals. Most injuries are minor and are managed within the department. This study suggests that there is a role for better education of less experienced staff in the management of burns. There remains a need for public education in the prevention and first aid of burns.
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Abdominal compartment syndrome is frequently the result of aggressive fluid resuscitation after burn. Management of the open abdomen following decompressive celiotomy is a major problem. ⋯ In burn cases with abdominal compartment syndrome, a Wittmann Patch ay prove a helpful method of temporary abdominal closure, followed by primary closure with no complications.