Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Evidence suggests that sedative dexmedetomidine can prevent intestinal dysfunction. However, the specific mechanisms of its protective effects against burn-induced intestinal barrier injury remain unclear. We aimed to explore the possible positive effects of dexmedetomidine on burn-induced intestinal barrier injury and the effects the myosin light chain kinase (MLCK)/phosphorylated myosin light chain (p-MLC) signalling pathway in an experimental model of burn injury. ⋯ In conclusion, dexmedetomidine exerted an anti-inflammatory effect and protected tight junction complexes against burn‑induced intestinal barrier damage by inhibiting the MLCK/p-MLC signalling pathways.
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Modern, reliable, and valid outcome measures are essential to understanding the health needs of young children with burn injuries. Burn-specific and age-appropriate legacy assessment tools exist for this population but are hindered by the limitations of existing paper-based instruments. The purpose of this study was to develop item pools comprised of questions appropriate for children aged 1-5 with burn injuries. ⋯ Four item pools were established: (1) communication and language development; (2) physical functioning; (3) psychological functioning and (4) social functioning for preschool-aged children with burn injuries. We selected and refined candidate items, recall periods, survey instructions, and response option choices through clinical and parental feedback during the qualitative review and cognitive interview processes. Item pools are currently being field-tested as part of the process to calibrate and validate the Preschool1-5 LIBRE Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) Profile.
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Comparative Study
Comparison between the portable pressure measuring device and PicoPress® for garment pressure measurement on hypertrophic burn scar during compression therapy.
The current standard treatment for hypertrophic scars following burn injury is pressure garment therapy. The experimenters developed the novel portable pressure measuring device using silicon piezoresistive sensors. As PicoPress® is the most accurate (i.e., lowest variation and error) manometric sensor for pressure measurement, we sought to compare and examine the accuracy of the novel device regarding in vitro pressure measurements at the hypertrophic scar-pressure garment interface. ⋯ The novel device may present a viable alternative to PicoPress® for garment pressure measurements. In addition, the novel device improves adaptability to the hypertrophic scar shape and size. Complementary characteristics such as wireless transmission to an external device may allow burn patients to continuously wear the device for real-time measurements during pressure garment therapy, thus improving existing devices including PicoPress®.
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Health campaigns include physical campaigns in schools, community halls, or community malls. They can also be broadcast via television, newspaper, and radio. We launched a health campaign on social media platforms that have a powerful impact in this digital era. ⋯ Health awareness campaigns on digital platforms are powerful because the message spreads faster, and it is also safe during the pandemic.
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The majority of patients who sustained small (low % total body surface area [TBSA]) burns are assessed in an outpatient setting. This can be a traumatic experience, particularly, for paediatric patients. During the initial assessment pharmacological and non-pharmacological adjuncts, such as distraction therapy, can be employed to provide an environment that may reduce and minimise distress. In this study, we investigated whether distraction therapy reduces objective pain scores during the outpatient assessment of small acute burns in children. ⋯ This study of pain scores in small acute paediatric burns has shown that distraction therapy provided by a qualified play specialist can reduce maximal pain by over 2 points on the Wong-Baker™ VAS. Consideration should be given to ensure that distraction therapy is available at all times during initial consultations for children who have sustained small burns.