Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Many websites giving first aid advice are disappointingly inaccurate and at times dangerous in regard to burn injuries. With more patients relying on their smart phones to obtain online information the aim of this study was to compare first aid applications (apps) burn advice against those guidelines set by the British Burns Association (BBA). ⋯ Burns first aid is documented as being poorly given in the community. With easy access to the internet and specifically smart device apps, more needs to be done to improve burn first aid information online.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
A study comparing the effect of premedication with intravenous midazolam or dexmedetomidine on ketamine-fentanyl sedoanalgesia in burn patients: A randomized clinical trial.
Dressing changes and wound care-debridement procedures often cause fear and anxiety in burn patients, as these processes are quite painful. In order to determine the best method for alleviating pain during these procedures, the current study compared the efficacy and safety of intravenous dexmedetomidine and midazolam for premedication prior to these painful burn care procedures. ⋯ Results of this study indicate that dexmedetomidine causes hemodynamic alterations while midazolam causes respiratory depression. However, these effects are not severe, and we conclude that both agents are safe and effective to ensure sedation prior to painful burn-care procedures.
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The revised Baux score (age total body surface area (TBSA) burned and inhalation injury)) is predictive of mortality in burn patients. Our study objective was to assess whether the addition of body mass index (BMI) to the revised Baux score would be of value. We posited that increasing BMI follows a pattern similar to age and TBSA in the revised Baux score after severe burn injury. ⋯ We found a negative relationship between BMI and mortality. Pre-obesity appears to have a protective role, but BMI was not found to be a useful addition to the revised Baux score. Larger sample sizes may be of benefit a for a for a more definitive understanding of the role of BMI with regards to burn survival.
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Intensive care (ICU) patients' burn pain is difficult to assess, communicate and address, risking chronic pain syndromes and psychological morbidity. ⋯ Effective pain assessment, management and advocacy are assisted by evidence-based assessment practices.