Thermal Injuries

Abstract

In the United States, an estimated 450,000 patients with burns are treated in medical facilities annually. On assessment of burn patients, Advanced Trauma Life Support protocols should be followed because these patients often suffer from concomitant trauma; chemical exposure and airway compromise should also be considered in the initial assessment. Mortality from burn injuries increases with the patient’s age, the extent of the burn, and the presence of inhalation injury. This review covers the epidemiology, pathophysiology, assessment and stabilization, diagnosis, treatment and disposition, and outcomes of patients with burn injuries. Figures show the structure of the skin, and photographs of partial-thickness and full-thickness burns. Tables list burn classification by depth, indications for intubation, American Burn Association 2010 guidelines for calculating IV fluid resuscitation, indications for escharotomy in patients with circumferential trunk and extremity burns, and indications for burn center referral. This review contains 3 highly rendered figures, 5 tables, and 33 references.