Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Prognostic burn index (PBI) is a unique model utilized to predict mortality of burn patients in Japan. In contrast, other prediction models are rarely used in Japan, and their accuracy and predictive value are unknown. The present study aimed to compare commonly used burn prediction models and determine the appropriate model for mortality prediction in Japanese burn patients. ⋯ Although the performance of PBI was good, it was not superior to the Baux score, revised Baux score, and ABSI. These three scores have a high prognostic accuracy. Hence, they are considered as alternative burn prognostic scores in Japan. The Baux score was an optimal prognostic model for patients with burns in Japan.
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Administration of appropriate first aid immediately after a burn injury is crucial to averting further harm to the victim, physically and psychologically. The aim of this review is to enable the design of better interventions by describing what is known about prehospital care of burn victims in Africa. ⋯ Appropriate prehospital care for burn injury generally is not practiced in Africa. Yet best practices for prehospital care are affordable, available, and easily understood. The greatest risk factor for poor care is first responders' lack of knowledge. Awareness and education campaigns focusing on the lay public, as well as educational institutions for health workers, are urgently needed throughout the continent.
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Burn injury is a significant contributor to mortality, especially in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Patients in many communities throughout sub-Saharan Africa use traditional health practitioners for burn care prior to seeking evaluation at an allopathic burn center. The World Health Organization defines a traditional health practitioner as "a person who is recognized by the community where he or she lives as someone competent to provide health care by using plant, animal and mineral substances and other methods based on social, cultural and religious practices based on indigenous knowledge and belief system." The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of prior traditional health practitioner treatment and assess its effect on burn injury mortality. ⋯ The use of traditional health practitioners prior to presentation at a tertiary burn center is associated with an increased odds of mortality after burn injury. These effects may be independent of the potential harms associated with a delay in definitive care. Further work is needed to delineate strategies for integrating with local customs and building improved networks for burn care, especially in rural areas.
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Shear-wave elastography (SWE) is an ultrasound based technology that can provide reliable measurements (velocity) of scar stiffness. The aim of this research was to evaluate the concurrent validity of using both the measured velocity and the calculated difference in velocity between scars and matched controls, in addition to evaluating potential patient factors that may influence the interpretation of the measurements.
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Compression garments are well accepted as routine practice for scar management after burn. In a recent systematic review, six main reasons for compression garment non-adherence were identified including sensory disturbances. To further understand the impact of sensory issues, the aim of the present study is to investigate associations between sensory variables and compression garment wear. ⋯ Overall, sensory factors assessed using both self-report and quantitative sensory testing were associated with compression garment adherence. This knowledge suggests the value in developing and evaluating sensory-informed treatment strategies to improve compression garment wear.