Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Early excision of burns reduces the incidence of local and systemic infections caused by colonising microorganisms, and reduces mortality and length of hospital stay. Appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis can reduce the risk of postoperative wound infections and skin graft loss. Antibiotic selection should be based on likely pathogens. However, there are few studies that have investigated the early pathogenic colonisers of acute burn wounds. ⋯ Increased colonisation of acute burn wounds with pathogenic gram-negative bacteria was associated with increased size of burn.
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The control of edema in burn injured patients is a priority as it can impede the wound healing process. Bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) has been identified as a method of swelling assessment that has merit after burns. The aim of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of BIS in the measurement of localised burn wound edema across (1) different dressing conditions (no dressing, non silver and silver dressings) and (2) three electrode positions. ⋯ There was a significant interaction between each dressing condition and localised limb segment volume (p<0.01). An algorithm was developed to adjust resistance values when a silver dressing is in use. BIS may be used clinically to monitor localised changes in burn wound edema.
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Fatigue is a common consequence of numerous pediatric health conditions. In adult burn survivors, fatigue was found to be a major problem. The current cross-sectional study is aimed at determining the levels of perceived fatigue in pediatric burn survivors. ⋯ Our results suggest that fatigue is prevalent in at least part of the pediatric burn population after 1-5 years. However, the fact that parents reported significantly more symptoms of fatigue then the children themselves, hampers evident conclusions. It is essential for clinicians and therapists to consider both perspectives when evaluating pediatric fatigue after burn and to determine who needs special attention, the pediatric burn patient or its parent.
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To study the relationship between day of admission and important outcomes among patients with burn injuries. ⋯ Weekend admission is associated with increased mortality among patients with burn injury >65years old. Weekend admission is also associated with increased morbidity and prolonged length of stay.
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Observational Study
Impairment of tear film and the ocular surface in patients with facial burns.
The aim of this study is to investigate the factors affecting tear film and ocular surface in patients with facial burns. ⋯ Facial burn patients with lid abnormalities had tear film instability and ocular discomforts. Aggressive treatment may be of benefit in facial burn patients with lid involvement. Electrical burn caused more severe pain compared to thermal burn. Attention should be paid to pain control in patients with electrical burns.