Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Organ dysfunction and failure increase the morbidity and mortality following major burn. Alteration of liver morphology and function is common following major burns; however, it has not received much attention. In this study we have assessed the impact of thermal burn on liver in relation with mortality. ⋯ There is a correlation between altered liver morphology and function with mortality among severely burnt patients however liver volume did not show statistical significance. A decreasing trend of liver dysfunction parameters and hepatomegaly following burn is associated with good prognosis.
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Infection is still the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among burn patients worldwide. Isolation and identification of pediatric burn wound bacterial colonizers can prevent infection and improve burn trauma treatment. In this study, we explored early microbial colonizers within the burn wounds and the susceptibility of those isolates to antibiotics among hospitalized pediatric patients with minor and moderate burns, clinically significant infections and outcomes. ⋯ Despite common bacterial colonization of acute burn wounds, only ∼10% of the patients developed clinically significant infections, a minority of which were sensitive to prophylactic antibiotics. Our findings indicate the need to refine the antibiotic approach in pediatric patients with minor/moderate burns in our local setting.
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Discharging against medical advice can have significant, detrimental effects on burn patient outcomes as well as higher hospital readmission rates and healthcare expenditures. The goal of this study is to identify characteristics of patients who left against medical advice and suggest solutions to mitigate these factors. Data were collected at our American Burn Association verified Burn Unit over a 15-year period. ⋯ This study found that patients discharging against medical advice from the burn unit suffered from smaller injuries, often due to cold related injuries. These patients had comorbid substance abuse or psychiatric histories, and the majority had Medicaid or state health insurance. Recruiting interdisciplinary care members, including social work, psychiatry, and addiction medicine, early may help these patients by encouraging completion of their hospital care and setting up crucial follow-up care.
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Since insight into the motivation of behaviour in bioethanol related burn accidents is lacking, this study aimed to qualitatively examine influencing factors in bioethanol related burn accidents. In order to identify target points for effective burn prevention. ⋯ Trust in consumers may be over-estimated, as proper use cannot be expected. To prevent future bioethanol related burn incidents, thresholds for obtaining and using bioethanol should be increased, safe alternatives to ignite open fires and wood stoves should be provided and knowledge and warnings should be improved.
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To observe depressive-like behavior and hippocampus monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) changes in burned mice. ⋯ Burned mice showed "delayed" depressive-like behavior combined with a degree of anxiety; this phenomenon is likely associated with the increase in MAOA expression in the hippocampus.