Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
-
Several studies have analyzed single or combinations of variables for impact on length of stay (LOS) in thermally-injured patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate a multitude of established variables and potentially identify novel variables associated with LOS in a single study. ⋯ There are multiple factors associated with the increased LOS seen in patients with thermal and inhalation injury. This study confirmed and identified novel factors not previously discussed in the literature that were significantly associated with LOS. Expansion of the data submitted to the National Burn Repository and the Burn Quality Improvement Program may be warranted. This study confirms claims from previous studies on inadequacy of current data submitted for benchmarking and under-reimbursement for the care of such a complex population.
-
Multiple studies have been published on toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and Stevens-Johnsen syndrome (SJS). Nursing care is an important part of the treatment of TEN patients. Unfortunately, limited information on nursing in TEN/SJS patients has been published in the current literature. Nursing research is needed to improve the complex nursing care required for these rare patients. Therefore, the objective was to assess nursing problems in TEN patients in a burn centre setting over a 30-year period. ⋯ The most frequently reported nursing problems involved physical functions, especially on days three to 20 after onset of the disease. With this knowledge, we can start nursing interventions early in the treatment, address problems at the first sign and inform patients and their families or relatives of these issues early in the disease process. A next step to improve nursing care for TEN patients is to acquire knowledge on the optimal interventions for nursing problems.
-
The gold standard treatment for severe burn injuries is autologous skin grafting and the use of commercial dermal substitutes. However, resulting skin tissue following treatment usually displays abnormal morphology and functionality including scarring, skin contracture due to the poor elasticity and strength of existing dermal substitutes. In this study, we have developed a triple-polymer scaffold made of collagen-elastin-polycaprolactone (CEP) composite, aiming to enhance the mechanical properties of the scaffold while retaining its biological properties in promoting cell attachment, proliferation and tissue regeneration. ⋯ In mice, electrospun collagen-elastin-PCL scaffolds promoted keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation, tissue integration and accelerated early-stage angiogenesis. Only a mild inflammatory response was observed in the first 2 weeks post-subcutaneous implantation. Our data indicates that the electrospun collagen-elastin-PCL scaffolds could potentially serve as a skin substitute to promote skin cell growth and tissue regeneration after severe burn injury.
-
Temperature dissociation of liquids in reusable thermoplastic containers-An eco-friendly scald risk?
Recent global concern regarding the impact of plastic waste on the environment has resulted in efforts to utilise reusable drink containers. Research is lacking regarding temperature dissociation of drinks in reusable thermoplastic cups. This study aimed to compare the cooling time of two common hot drinks sold at a UK retailer, in the three vessels they are sold; ceramic, disposable paper (with and without lid) and reusable thermoplastic cups (with and without lid). ⋯ The growing trend in reusable cups does not in itself pose an increased risk of scald injury. However, we consider that the potentially increased ambulatory behaviour associated with using a lidded rather than unlidded cup may increase scald risk. We propose that further consumer guidance should be disseminated regarding the use of any lidded takeaway container to prevent scalds in both adults and children.