Reports on vascular catheter-associated thromboembolic events in a burn unit - a gap in the literature?

Indwelling intravascular catheters are important tools in the care of critically ill patients; however, they have an inherent risk of infection or thromboembolic events. Reports on catheter associated thromboembolic events in burn units are rare, despite being well recognized that burn patients bear an increased baseline risk for thromboembolic events. We describe two catheter-associated thromboembolic complications in burn patients in a burn unit and the morbidity associated with these events. Patients with endovascular catheters in burn units may be at increased risk for severe thromboembolic events associated with intravascular catheters, but specific guidelines for prevention and management of these patients are still missing.

Characterization and prevention of flame burns caused by electric bicycle battery chargers: results from a 7-year experience.

OBJECTIVE: With the recent exponential increase in express deliveries across China, the number of patients with flame burns caused by electric bicycle battery chargers (BEBBC) has markedly increased in burn units. In this study, we aimed to characterize BEBBC to systematically explore measures to prevent their occurrence. METHODS: We performed a retrospective chart review of patients with flame burns who visited the Burn Department of Rui Jin Hospital between January 2015 and December 2021. RESULTS: Sixty-three patients with BEBBC and 1412 with types of other flame burn were included in this study. Fifty-six of the 63 BEBBC cases occurred between 9 pm and 7 am. BEBBC incidents involved a higher incidence of group burn in which multiple individuals were affected. Non-local patients with BEBBC were significantly younger than their local counterparts. BEBBC had a higher mortality than types of other flame burn. CONCLUSIONS: The rising incidence of BEBBC calls for greater attention because of the associated high mortality and heavy burden on society. Enacting related legislation, disseminating information to the public, and improving treatment to control infection can help prevent BEBBC, increase its cure rate, and reduce patient mortality.

Burn or trauma scoring: experience of the burn unit of the Queen Astrid Military Hospital during the terror attacks on 22 March 2016.

PURPOSE: On 22 March 2016, the burn unit (BU) of Queen Astrid Military Hospital assessed a surge in severely injured victims from terror attacks at the national airport and Maalbeek subway station according to the damage control resuscitation (DCR) and damage control surgery (DCS) principles. This study delves into its approach to identify a suitable triage scoring system and to determine if a BU can serve as buffer capacity for mass casualty incidents (MCIs). METHODS: The study reviewed retrospectively the origin of explosion, demographic data, sustained injuries, performed surgery, and length of stay of all admitted patients. Trauma scores (Injury Severity Score (ISS) and New Injury Severity Score (NISS)) and triage scores (Revised Trauma Score (RTS), New Trauma Score (NTS), and Trauma Score Injury Severity Score (TRISS)), were compared to burn mortality scores (Osler updated Baux Score and Tobiasen's Abbreviated Burn Severity Index (ABSI)). RESULTS: Of the 23 casualties admitted to the BU, the scores calculated on average 3.5 indications for a level 1 trauma center (ISS 4, NISS 6, RTS 0, T-NTS 4). Nevertheless, no deaths occurred during admission or the 1-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: MCIs create chaos and a high demand for care. Avoiding bottlenecks and adhering to the DCR/DCS principles are necessary to deliver the best care to the largest number of people. This study indicates that a BU can serve as buffer capacity for MCIs. Nevertheless, its integration into the medical resilience plan depends on accurate scoring, comprehensive care availability, and understanding of the DCR/DCS concept. NTS for triage seems the best fit for scoring polytrauma referrals to a BU during MCIs.

A multi-species outbreak of VIM-producing carbapenem-resistant bacteria in a burn unit and subsequent investigation of rapid development of cefiderocol resistance.

Carbapenem resistance due to metallo-ß-lactamases (MBLs) such as the Verona integron-encoded metallo-ß-lactamase (VIM) is particularly problematic due to the limited treatment options. We describe a case series of bacterial infections in a tertiary care hospital due to multi-species acquisition of a VIM gene along with our experience using novel ß-lactam antibiotics and antibiotic combinations to treat these infections. Four patients were treated with the combination of ceftazidime-avibactam and aztreonam, with no resistance to the combination detected. However, cefiderocol-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were detected in two out of the five patients who received cefiderocol within 3 weeks of having started the antibiotic. Strain pairs of sequential susceptible and resistant isolates from both patients were analyzed using whole-genome sequencing. This analysis revealed that the pairs of isolates independently acquired point mutations in both the cirA and fiu genes, which encode siderophore receptors. These point mutations were remade in a laboratory strain of K. pneumoniae and resulted in a significant increase in the MIC of cefiderocol, even in the absence of a beta-lactamase enzyme or a penicillin-binding protein 3 (PBP3) mutation. While newer ß-lactam antibiotics remain an exciting addition to the antibiotic armamentarium, their use must be accompanied by diligent monitoring for the rapid development of resistance.

Monolayer acellular dermal matrix for reconstruction of face burn: A case report.

Introduction: Facial burns constitute a severe medical and psychological challenge, dramatically affecting patients' quality of life. We present an innovative approach involving the use of a monolayer acellular matrix-specifically the INTEGRA® Dermal Regeneration Template Single Layer-to optimize skin grafting outcomes in a facial burn patient. Case report: The case revolves around a 45-year-old woman suffering a facial burn due to a clothes iron accident. Following escharectomy, dermabrasion, and homologous tissue graft placement, a monolayer acellular dermal matrix was strategically applied to the right malar area. Subsequently, we conducted a reconstruction with partial-thickness grafts. The integration of grafts with the acellular dermal matrix was seamless, absent of complications. The patient's healing process was marked by significant improvement, devoid of infections, bleeding, or any need for graft resection. Discussion: This case underscores the profound benefits of using a monolayer dermal matrix in facial burn reconstruction. Despite necessitating surgical expertise and meticulous wound preparation, this approach substantially reduced operating room time and improved clinical outcomes. This study illuminates the potential of acellular dermal matrix application in facial burn reconstruction, paving the way for further research and clinical advancements in this area.

Investigating the impact of COVID-19 on the provision of pediatric burn care.

The COVID-19 pandemic had widespread effects on the healthcare system due to public health regulations and restrictions. The following study shares trends observed during these extraordinary circumstances to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the provision of pediatric burn care at an American-Burn-Association verified tertiary pediatric hospital in Ontario, Canada. Pediatric burn patient data for new burn patients between March 17th, 2019, and March 17th, 2021, was retrospectively extracted and two cohorts of patients were formed: pre-pandemic and pandemic, through which statistical analysis was performed. No significant changes in the number of admitted patients, age, and sex of patients were observed. However, a significant increase in fire/flame burns was observed during the pandemic period. Additionally, a decrease in follow-up care was observed while an increase in acute burn care (wound care and surgical interventions) was found for the pandemic cohort. Despite changes to hospital care facilities to maximize resources for COVID-19-related care, our findings demonstrate that burn care remained an essential service and significant reductions in patient volumes were not observed. Overall, this study will aid in future planning and management for the provision of pediatric burn resources during similar public health emergencies.

Ambient Room Temperatures in a Burn Intensive Care Unit-A Quality Improvement Project.

Introduction: Patients with major burn injuries are particularly susceptible to hypothermia. The ability to maintain and rapidly increase ambient temperatures may reduce the impact of hypothermia and the hypermetabolic response. The purpose of this study was to determine ambient patient room temperatures in a burn intensive care unit (ICU) and to evaluate our ability to adjust these temperatures. Methods: The ambient temperatures of 9 burn ICU patient rooms were recorded hourly over a 6-month period in an American Burn Association-verified burn centre. Temperatures were recorded using wall-mounted smart sensors, transmitted to a mobile smartphone application via Bluetooth, and then exported to Excel for analysis. On 2 predetermined dates, thermostats in all rooms were simultaneously set to maximum, and monitored over 3 h. This represented a sound change initiative, and replicated a medical order to increase the ambient temperature during critical stages of patient care. Results: We recorded 4394 individual hourly temperature measurements for each of the 9 rooms. The mean ambient temperature was 23.5 ± 0.3 °C (range 22.8-24). After intervention 1, ambient temperatures increased <2 °C in 7 rooms and by only 2 °C-3 °C in the other 2 rooms. The overall mean increase in temperature over 3 h across all rooms was 1.03 °C ± 1.19 °C (range -0.88 to 3.26). Following intervention 2, temperatures could be increased by ≥2 °C in only 2 rooms with an overall mean increase in temperature of only 0.76 °C ± 0.99 °C (range -0.29 to 2.43) across all rooms. Conclusions: The burn ICU rooms were relatively cool and our ability locally to adjust ambient temperatures quickly was limited. Burn centres should have regular facility assessments to assess whether ambient temperatures can be adjusted expeditiously when required.

Introduction : Les patients ayant des brûlures importantes (>20% de la surface corporelle totale) sont particulièrement exposés au risque d'hypothermie. La capacité à maintenir et à rapidement augmenter la température ambiante peut réduire la répercussion négative de l'hypothermie et de la réponse hypermétabolique. L'objectif de cette étude était de déterminer la température ambiante des chambres de patients dans une unité de soins intensifs (USI) pour brûlés et d'évaluer notre capacité à ajuster ces températures. Méthodes : La température ambiante de neuf chambres de patients en USI pour brûlés a été enregistrée heure par heure pendant une période de 6 mois dans un centre pour brûlés vérifié par l'ABA. Les températures ont été consignées en utilisant des capteurs intelligents montés sur les murs avec transmission par Bluetooth à une application mobile pour téléphone intelligent, puis exportées dans un tableau Excel pour analyse. À deux dates prédéterminées, les thermostats de toutes les chambres ont été simultanément réglés au maximum et contrôlés pendant 3 heures. Cela représentait une initiative de changement réfléchie, répliquant une consigne médicale d'augmentation de la température ambiante pendant les phases critiques de soins aux patients. Résultats : Nous avons enregistré 4394 relevés horaires de la température pour chacune des neuf chambres. La température ambiante moyenne était de 23,5 ± 0,3 °C (écart : 22,8 à 24). Après la première intervention, les températures ambiantes ont augmenté de moins de 2 °C dans 7 chambres et de seulement 2 °C à 3 °C dans les deux autres chambres. L'augmentation moyenne globale pendant les 3 heures dans toutes les chambres était de 1,03 °C ± 1,19 °C (écart : −0,88 à 3,26). Après la deuxième intervention, les températures ont pu être augmentées de ≥ 2 °C dans seulement deux chambres avec une augmentation globale moyenne de la température de seulement 0,76 °C ± 0,99 °C (écart : −0,29 à 2,43) pour l'ensemble des chambres. Conclusions : Les chambres de l'USI pour brûlés étaient relativement fraîches et notre capacité à ajuster rapidement les températures ambiantes était limitée. Les centres pour brûlés devraient faire l'objet d'évaluations régulières d'établissement pour déterminer si la température ambiante peut être ajustée dans des délais très brefs en cas de besoin.

Investigation of Acinetobacter baumannii Outbreak in a Burn Unit Revealed a Surprising Environmental Source.

We describe an outbreak of Acinetobacter baumannii in a 15-bed regional burn unit in an academic tertiary care medical center, and the investigations and control measures used to halt the outbreak are described. Nine cases of A. baumannii were reported in our burn unit in a one-year period, which was higher than our expected number of two-three cases per year. Our burn unit director requested an outbreak investigation, and our hospital's infection control department investigated thoroughly and found a source for that outbreak, which was never reported as a source in the previous literature. We identified table fans as the source of this outbreak. We then developed a strict fan policy, and after implementation of the policy, and terminal cleaning of rooms, only two cases per year of A. baumannii were reported in the next three-year period. We concluded that the table fans were colonized with A. baumannii and since they were used interchangeably in all patient rooms, caused this outbreak. There are no specific joint commission guidelines for the use of fans in hospitals. While fans can be used for the comfort of the patient, we should be cautious not to spread infections.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the epidemiology of severe burns : A single center study from a specialized burn center in Vienna.

INTRODUCTION: Currently, very little detailed information on the epidemiological distribution and specificities of severely burned patients during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is available. This retrospective study aims to describe and compare this specific patient population based on 114 patients who were treated between March 2019 and March 2021 at the Center for Severe Burn Injuries at the Medical University of Vienna. METHODS: To answer the research questions, a retrospective cohort study has been conducted over a period of 24 months, starting in March 2019 and ending in March 2021. To evaluate the epidemiological differences, the patients were divided into 2 observation periods of 12 months each. RESULTS: In the period from 12 March 2020 to 11 March 2021, a total of 62 patients were admitted to the Center for Severe Burn Injuries. In comparison, only 52 patients were admitted in the same period of the previous year, which corresponds to an increase of 19.2%. In addition, it was noted that during the 2019-2020 observation period, 27% of patients were female and 73% male, whereas during the pandemic the gender distribution was 42% female and only 58% male. During the pre-pandemic observational period, 13 out of 52 patients admitted died (25%), whereas during the pandemic, 17 out of 62 patients succumbed to their injuries (27%). CONCLUSION: Although the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic seems to be decreasing, especially due to the increasing availability of vaccines, there is a need for more data on the impact of the crisis on severely burned patients. In contrast to the current literature, we have seen a greater number of inpatient admissions to the Center for Severe Burn Injuries, as well as significant differences in gender distribution. Our data also suggest that the circumstances of the pandemic have no influence on the likelihood of survival for patients with severe burns.

Emergency Care for Burn Patients-A Single-Center Report.

Burns, one of the main public health problems, lead to significant mortality and morbidity. Epidemiological studies regarding burn patients in Romania are scarce. The aim of this study is to identify the burn etiology, demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes in patients requiring treatment in a regional burn unit. DESIGN: We performed a retrospective observational study of 2021. PATIENTS: All patients admitted to our six-bed intensive care unit (ICU) were included. INTERVENTIONS: The following data were collected for further analysis: demographics, burn pattern (etiology, size, depth, affected body region), type of ventilation, ABSI (Abbreviated Burn Severity Index) score, comorbidities, bioumoral parameters, and hospitalization days. RESULTS: There were 93 burned patients included in our study that were divided into two groups: alive patients' group (63.4%) and deceased patients' group (36.6%). The mean age was 55.80 ± 17.16 (SD). There were 65.6% male patients, and 39.8% of the patients were admitted by transfer from another hospital. Further, 59 patients presented third-degree burns, from which 32.3% died. Burns affecting >37% of the total body surface area (TBSA) were noticed in 30 patients. The most vulnerable regions of the body were the trunk (p = 0.003), the legs (p = 0.004), the neck (p = 0.011), and the arms (p = 0.020). Inhalation injury was found in 60.2% of the patients. The risk of death in a patient with an ABSI score > 9 points was 72 times higher. Comorbidities were present in 44.1% of the patients. We observed a median LOS (length of stay) of 23 days and an ICU-LOS of 11 days. Logistic regression analysis showed that admission protein, creatinkinase, and leukocytes were independent risk factors for mortality. The general mortality rate was 36.6%. CONCLUSION: A thermal factor was responsible for the vast majority of burns, 94.6% of cases being accidents. Extensive and full-thickness burns, burns affecting the arms, inhalation injuries, the need for mechanical ventilation, and a high ABSI score represent important risk factors for mortality. Considering the results, it appears that prompt correction of protein, creatinkinase, and leukocytes levels may contribute to improvement in severe burn patients' outcomes.

Occupational Stress- Addressing Woes of the Nurses in a Burn Unit.

Occupational stress can leave the nurses drained while caring for patients in the burn unit. This existential-phenomenological study aimed to explore burn unit nurses' lived experiences of occupational stressors and organizational support. Twenty-two nurses working in the burn unit were interviewed. Data were analyzed utilizing Colaizzi's 7-step method. Three themes were generated: stressful work environment; feelings of helplessness; need for organizational support. Nurses reported that organizational support should be available for dealing with the work-related stressors in the burn unit.

Asociación entre índice neutrófilo/linfocito como biomarcador de mortalidad en pacientes con quemaduras mayores durante el periodo del 01 de febrero de 2020 al 28 de enero de 2022 / Association between neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio as a biomarker of mortality in patientswith major burns during the period February 1, 2020 to January 28, 2022 / Associação entre a relação neutrófilo/linfócito como biomarcador de mortalidade empacientes com grandes queimaduras no período de 1º de fevereiro de 2020 a 28 de janeiro de 2022

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Abstract: Introduction: burns are a serious public health problem, with several studies estimating that more than 11 million people were affected by burn injuries with approximately 300,000 deaths worldwide. Studies showed that the main causes of death were inhalation injuries, infection, and metabolic and hemodynamic complications ending in multi-organ failure. It has been shown that the increase in the systemic inflammatory response, whose parameters can be easily obtained, can be useful and directly related to poor prognosis. Several clinical studies indicate that the ratio of neutrophils to lymphocytes, an indicator of systemic inflammatory response, can signify the presence of inflammation in some diseases such as diabetes, coronary artery disease, cholangitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and recently COVID-19. Objective: to know the association between the neutrophil lymphocyte index as a biomarker of mortality in patients with major burns. Material and methods: an observational, retrospective, descriptive, longitudinal study will be carried out: with a user population of the National Center for Research and Attention to Burned Patients (CENIAQ) of the Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra National Rehabilitation Institute. A review of the clinical records of the patients treated in the period will be carried out during the period from February 1, 2020 to February 28, 2022, the data of admission and discharge will be taken into account, as well as initial laboratory studies. The information will be recorded in an Excel spreadsheet to be later analyzed in the SPSS software, the results will be obtained and finally their analysis will be carried out. Results: in the analyzed population we found that the average age is 40 years, it was also found that the most affected gender in this population corresponds to the male gender with 81.2%. It was also found that, within the diagnoses of the population studied, fire burn was the one that most affected the population, this being 67.1% of all diagnoses. However, in this study no significant difference was found in the neutrophil lymphocyte index with respect to the type of burn. In our analysis, the neutrophil lymphocyte index was included as a biochemical predictor of mortality, since high levels of this index at admission are associated with increased mortality. In our population, a significant difference was found between the groups with a fatal clinical outcome and those who recovered, which is why it can be considered as a predictor of mortality in these patients since they presented a p value < 0.023, data that is consistent with what is reported in the international literature where the Neutrophil lymphocyte index value can be used as a predictor of mortality. Conclusions: an association was found between the elevation of the neutrophil/lynphocyte ratio and mortality in patients with severe burns.

Resumo: Introdução: as queimaduras são um grave problema de saúde pública, onde estima-se em diversos estudos que mais de 11 milhões de pessoas foram acometidas por queimaduras com aproximadamente 300.000 mortes em todo o mundo. Estudos mostraram que as principais causas de morte foram lesões inalatórias, infecções e complicações metabólicas e hemodinâmicas que culminaram em falência de múltiplos órgãos. Tem sido demonstrado que o aumento da resposta inflamatória sistêmica, cujos parâmetros podem ser facilmente obtidos, pode ser útil e estar diretamente relacionado ao mau prognóstico. Vários estudos clínicos indicam que a proporção de neutrófilos para linfócitos, um indicador de resposta inflamatória sistêmica, pode significar a presença de inflamação em algumas doenças como diabetes, doença arterial coronariana, colangite, artrite reumatóide e recentemente COVID-19. Objetivo: conhecer a associação entre o índice neutrófilo-linfócito como biomarcador de mortalidade em pacientes com grandes queimaduras. Material e métodos: será realizado um estudo observacional, descritivo, retrospectivo, longitudinal: com a população usuária do Centro Nacional de Pesquisa e Atenção ao Paciente Queimado (CENIAQ), do Instituto Nacional de Reabilitação Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra. Realizaremos uma revisão dos prontuários clínicos dos pacientes atendidos no período de 1º de fevereiro de 2020 a 28 de fevereiro de 2022, serão levados em consideração os dados de admissão e alta, bem como os estudos laboratoriais iniciais. As informações serão registradas em planilha Excel para posteriormente serem analisadas no software SPSS, serão obtidos os resultados e por fim será realizada a análise. Resultados: na população analisada verificamos que a média de idade é de 40 anos, constatou-se também que o gênero mais acometido nesta população corresponde ao gênero masculino com 81.2%. Constatou-se também que, dentro dos diagnósticos da população estudada, a queimadura por fogo foi o que mais afetou a população, sendo este 67.1% do total de diagnósticos. No entanto, neste estudo não foi encontrada diferença significativa no índice neutrófilo-linfócito em relação ao tipo de queimadura. Em nossa análise, foram incluídos o índice neutrófilo-linfócito como preditor bioquímico de mortalidade, uma vez que altos níveis desse índice na admissão estão associados a aumento da mortalidade. Em nossa população, foi encontrada diferença significativa entre os grupos com desfecho clínico fatal e os recuperados, motivo pelo qual pode ser considerado como preditor de mortalidade nesses pacientes, pois apresentaram valor de p < 0.023, dado compatível com o relatado em a literatura internacional onde o valor do índice neutrófilo-linfócito pode ser utilizado como preditor de mortalidade. Conclusões: encontrou-se associação entre a elevação do índice neutrófilo/linfócito e mortalidade em pacientes com queimaduras graves.

Analysis of Incidence, Risk Factors and Outcomes Associated With Abdominal Hypertension in Major Burn Patients.

The objective of this study is to analyze incidence and risk factors for intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) in major burn patients. Aprospective cohort study was conducted at a Burns Treatment Center, including all patients with a burned body surface area ≥20% admitted from August 2015 to January 2018. Intra-abdominal pressure was measured periodically during the first week of ICU stay. Sixty-four patients were analyzed, with median age of 39 years (interquartile range ITQ: 28-53) and 66% were male. Median burned body surface area was 30% (ITQ: 20-46). Twenty-eight (56%) patients presented criteria for IAH and seven (14%) developed clinical signs compatible with ACS. Burn severity was greater in the group that developed IAH, represented by the ABSI score. This group also presented higher values of creatinine and positive fluid balance. The group of patients with ACS showed a higher frequency of alterations in renal and respiratory functions. The organ systems most frequently affected in groups with diagnostic criteria for IAH and ACS were renal, cardiovascular and respiratory. Mortality rate at hospital outcome was 56%. In conclusion, the incidence of IAH during the study period was high in patients with extensive burns. The occurrence of ACS was associated with organic dysfunctions of the respiratory, cardiovascular and renal systems. The factors associated with intra-abdominal hypertension were age, extension of burned body surface, inhalation injury, and need for mechanical ventilation.

Cette étude a pour objectifs d'analyser l'incidence de l'hyperpression abdominale (HPA) et du syndrome du compartiment abdominal (SCA) chez les brûlés graves. Il s'agit d'une étude monocentrique prospective conduite auprès des 64 patients admis avec une brûlure >20% SCT entre août 2015 et janvier 2018. La préssion intraabdominale (PIA) était régulièrement mesurée pendant la première semaine. L'âge médian des patients était de 39 ans (IQR 28-53) et les 2/3 d'entre eux étaient des hommes. La SCT médiane était de 30% (IQR 20-46). Vingt huit (56%) patients avaient des critères d'HPA et 7 (14%) ont présenté des signes de SCA. Le score ABSI et la créatininémie étaient plus élevés chez les patients avec HPA, qui avaient aussi un bilan entrées-sorties positif. Les patients avec un SCA avaient plus de défaillances rénale et respiratoire. Les défaillances les plus fréquemment observées chez les patients avec HPA/SCA étaient rénales, cardio-vasculaires et respiratoires. La mortalité était de 56%. En conclusion, l'incidence de HPA est élevée chez les patients gravement brûlés. La survenue de SCA est une cause de défaillances rénale, cardio-vasculaire et respiratoire. Les facteurs prédicitifs de HPA étaient l'âge, la surface brûlée, l'inhalation de fumées et le recours à la ventilation mécanique.

Mortality and Survival Analysis of Burn Patients Admitted in a Critical Care Burn Unit, Saudi Arabia.

Background: Burn injury is associated with a high mortality risk. Recent epidemiological data on burn injury and mortality rate from Saudi Arabia is lacking. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the survival rates and its predictability using the Baux score in patients with burn injury at a tertiary care hospital in Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included all patients admitted to the burn unit at King Fahd Hospital of the University, Al Khobar, between March 2014 and February 2020. Patients' burn characteristics and calculated revised Baux scores were collected. The age, burn wound size, type of burn, burn extension, and Baux score of the survivors and non-survivors were compared. Results: A total number of 102 patients were included, and their mean age was 24.2 years (range: 9 months to 78 years). The mean affected total body surface area was 26.4%. Ninety patients (88%) suffered from flame/scald burn. The mortality rate was 17.6% (18 patients); all these patients had flame burns. No patient with a revised Baux score ≥110 survived (n = 14; 77% of the total deaths), while there was no mortality at score <36. Inhalational injuries were reported in 18 patients, of which 13 (72%) died. Patients with patent airway and no inhalation injury were 19 times more likely to survive than those with a compromised airway (P < 0.001). In terms of the depth of burn, partial thickness increased the likeliness of survival by 10 times compared with full thickness (P < 0.003). Conclusion: Inhalational injury and burn size were the most prognostic factors of burn injury in this study. As all cases of mortality were from flame burns, regulation on flammable materials and safety measures should be promoted to the public.

Changes in the epidemiologic profile of burn patients during the lockdown in Catalonia (Spain): A warning call to strengthen prevention strategies in our community.

BACKGROUND: The worldwide coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, is the defining global health crisis of our time. Spain has had one of the highest burdens of COVID-19 worldwide. During this period, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital Burn Center (Barcelona) has faced a unique challenge: supporting the hospital response against COVID whilst continued offering an optimal care to the burn patient. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to characterize the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of acute burn patients who received urgent health care or admission to the our Burn Center during the mandatory confinement period in Spain forced by the COVID-19 epidemic. METHODS: We analyzed the medical records of burn patients who received urgent care and/or admission to our Burn Center during the mandatory confinement period in Spain (Period 1: from March 14th to May 9th, 2020) and during the same period of the last year (Period 2: from March 14th to May 9th, 2019). Both groups were compared in order to find differences in the epidemiologic profile of burned patients. RESULTS: A total of 350 burns cases were analyzed. A 36% reduction in the number of emergency department visits was identified during Period 1. However, we found an increase in the rate of hospital admissions in Period 1 (20% of the burn cases) compared with Period 2 (13% of the burn cases). Seventy-six burn-related primary admissions were analyzed: 37 patients were admitted during Period 1 and 39 patients during Period 2. No differences were found between the two periods in the proportion of patients that underwent surgical treatment: 59.5% of patients admitted during Period 1 and 61.5% of patients admitted during Period 2. A statistically significant increase was noted in the rate of paediatric (aged 0-16 years old) admissions during Period 1 (40.54%, n = 15) compared to Period 2 (20.5%, n = 8). Among paediatric patients, an increase in the rate of surgical procedures was noted in Period 1 (47% of children), compared with Period 2 (37% of children). Proportion of patients that were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit was higher among burn children admitted during period 1 (46.7%, n = 7) than those admitted during Period 2 (25%, n = 2). Among the 37 patients admitted during the lockdown period, two positive COVID-19 patients were confirmed. CONCLUSIONS: This study gives an overview of the clinical and epidemiologic profile of burned patients during the stringent lockdown in Spain forced by the COVID-19 epidemic. Our data shows a stable trend in the number of burn-related admissions and burn related-surgeries during the confinement period. A significant increase in the rate of burn children admitted and an increase in the severity of injuries in this population is noted. These data must be taken in account in the development of strategies to ensure the maintenance of Burn Centers function in extremely situations such as the current epidemic. A lack of effective burn prevention campaigns in our environment has been noted and the development of focused prevention strategies is a priority.

Impact of COVID-19 on global burn care.

BACKGROUND: Worldwide, different strategies have been chosen to face the COVID-19-patient surge, often affecting access to health care for other patients. This observational study aimed to investigate whether the standard of burn care changed globally during the pandemic, and whether country´s income, geographical location, COVID-19-transmission pattern, and levels of specialization of the burn units affected reallocation of resources and access to burn care. METHODS: The Burn Care Survey is a questionnaire developed to collect information on the capacity to provide burn care by burn units around the world, before and during the pandemic. The survey was distributed between September and October 2020. McNemar`s test analyzed differences between services provided before and during the pandemic, χ2 or Fisher's exact test differences between groups. Multivariable logistic regression analyzed the independent effect of different factors on keeping the burn units open during the pandemic. RESULTS: The survey was completed by 234 burn units in 43 countries. During the pandemic, presence of burn surgeons did not change (p = 0.06), while that of anesthetists and dedicated nursing staff was reduced (<0.01), and so did the capacity to manage patients in all age groups (p = 0.04). Use of telemedicine was implemented (p < 0.01), collaboration between burn centers was not. Burn units in LMICs and LICs were more likely to be closed, after adjustment for other factors. CONCLUSIONS: During the pandemic, most burn units were open, although availability of standard resources diminished worldwide. The use of telemedicine increased, suggesting the implementation of new strategies to manage burns. Low income was independently associated with reduced access to burn care.

Registro Nacional de Quemados Chile: presentación de una plataforma online y mirada al pronóstico de pacientes no trasladados a Centro de Quemados / Presentation of an online National Registration Platform for severely burned patients in the Chilean Public Health System and a look into the prognosis of patients not transferred to the National Reference Burn Center

Resumen Introducción: En el año 2017 se incorporó un registro de notificación en línea (Registro Nacional de Quemados) al flujo de derivación de pacientes quemados en Chile. Objetivo: A partir de la información obtenida de esta plataforma, se describe la epidemiología de las quemaduras y las variables que podrían explicar los traslados fallidos a nuestra unidad de quemados. Materiales y Método: Se analizaron los casos subidos a esta plataforma entre julio de 2017 y julio de 2018. Se caracterizó la población global y comparó variables relevantes entre el grupo de pacientes no trasladados a nuestra unidad y los que fueron trasladados con éxito. Resultados: Se analizaron 319 pacientes, 66% hombres, edad promedio 51 años, IMC de 27% y 47% con enfermedades previas. El fuego fue la principal causa de quemaduras. Se observó un 31% de injuria inhaladora. 107 pacientes no se trasladaron a nuestro centro de quemados. Los pacientes trasladados puntuaron más alto en comorbilidad, índice de gravedad, superficie corporal total quemada y aseo quirúrgico en el hospital base. El grupo de pacientes no trasladados puntuó más alto en injuria inhalatoria. La mortalidad global fue 20,4%. La mortalidad fue mayor en pacientes no trasladados (33,6% versus 13,7%; p < 0,001). Conclusiones: Además de facilitar el flujo de pacientes y ahorrar recursos, un uso noble de esta plataforma es ser fuente de información epidemiológica y de implementación de políticas públicas, lo cual puede ser tomado como ejemplo por otros países en vías de desarrollo. Además, se demuestra que ser trasladado constituye un factor protector de muerte por quemaduras.

Introduction: In 2017, an online notification register, the National Burn Registry, was incorporated into the referral flow of burned patients in Chile. Aim: Through the information obtained from this platform, we describe the epidemiology of burns in Chile, and identify variables that could explain failed transfers to our burn unit. Materials and Method: Cases uploaded to this platform between July 2017 - July 2018 were analyzed. We characterize the global population and relevant variables were compared between the group of patients that failed to be transferred to the burn unit and the ones who were successfully transferred. Results: 319 patients were analyzed, 66% men, average age 51 years, BMI of 27 and 47% with previous illnesses. Fire was the main cause of burn injury. Smoke inhalation injury was observed for 31%. 107 patients failed to reach to our burn center. Transferred patients rated higher in comorbidity, severity index, total burned body surface and surgical debridement at base hospital. The group of not transferred patients rated higher in inhalation injury. Overall mortality was 20.4%. Mortality was higher in non-transferred patients (33.6% versus 13.7%; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Aside from facilitating the flow of burned patients and resources saving, a noble use of this platform has been to serve as a source of epidemiological information and implementation of public policies, which can be taken as an example by other developing countries. Also, being transferred is a protective factor for death from burn injuries.

Parametrización de cuidados de enfermería para satisfacer necesidades humanas en personas con lesiones por quemaduras / Parameterization of Nursing Care for Satisfying Human Needs in People with Burn Injuries

Introducción: El cuidado de enfermería para satisfacer necesidades humanas es un proceso individualizado de atención a cada persona, a partir de una valoración que se apoya en el razonamiento clínico y contribuye a la toma de decisiones. Objetivo: Parametrizar los cuidados de enfermería para satisfacer necesidades humanas en personas con lesiones por quemaduras. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo-transversal en el servicio de Caumatología del Hospital Miguel Enríquez, La Habana, durante 2019. Universo 80 enfermeras asistenciales. Se parametrizó la variable cuidados para satisfacer necesidades humanas en personas con lesiones por quemaduras, fraccionada en tres dimensiones, ocho subdimensiones y 29 indicadores. Se aplicaron: observación, encuesta y entrevista y se utilizó el criterio de expertos para constatar la validez de los instrumentos, así como la triangulación metodológica para comparar los datos obtenidos. Se calculó media ponderada y coeficiente alfa de Cronbach para medir confiabilidad de los instrumentos. La comparación de proporciones se realizó mediante chi-cuadrado, considerándose un nivel de significancia para p < 0,05. Resultados: La subdimensión comunicación obtuvo media ponderada 1.49, modo de actuación 2.65, formación de valores 4.98 y ética 4.99, las subdimensiones: necesidades humanas, razonamiento clínico, toma de decisiones y juicio clínico obtienen nivel de desarrollo bajo. Las categorías NANDA-NOC-NIC mostraron deficiencias en el conocimiento inadecuado (47,50 porciento, 58,75 porciento y 66,25 porciento). Conclusiones: La parametrización realizada permitió avalar que los cuidados para satisfacer necesidades humanas en personas con lesiones por quemaduras tienen un nivel medio de desarrollo. Se identificaron problemas y potencialidades que justifican el desarrollo de una intervención de enfermería(AU)

Introduction: Nursing care is an individualized process of care for each person aimed at satisfying her or his human needs, based on assessment supported by clinical reasoning and contributing to decision-making. Objective: To parameterize nursing care aimed at satisfying human needs in people with burn injuries. Methods: Descriptive-cross-sectional study carried out, during 2009, in the burn service at Miguel Enríquez Hospital, La Habana. The universe was eighty healthcare nurses. The variable care for satisfying human needs in people with burn injuries was parameterized, divided into three dimensions, eight subdimensions and twenty-nine indicators. Observation, survey and interview were applied. The method of expert judgment was used to verify the instruments' validity, as well as methodological triangulation to compare the data obtained. Weighted mean and Cronbach's alpha coefficient were calculated to measure the instruments' reliability. Comparison of proportions was carried out using chi-square, considering a level of significance for P < 0.05. Results: The subdimension communication obtained a weighted mean of 1.49, with a mode of action at 2.65, formation of values at 4.98, and ethics at 4.99. The subdimensions human needs, clinical reasoning, decision-making and clinical judgment obtained a low level of development. The NANDA-NOC-NIC categories showed deficiencies associated to inadequate knowledge (47.50 percent, 58.75 percent, and 66.25 percent,, respectively). Conclusions: The parameterization carried out permitted to guarantee that the cares for satisfying human needs in people with burn injuries have a medium level of development. Problems and potentialities that justify the development of a nursing intervention were identified(AU)

Characteristics of burn injury during COVID-19 pandemic in Tokyo: A descriptive study.

INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has drastically changed everyday life worldwide. This study aimed to determine how COVID-19 affected the characteristics and outcomes of patients with severe burn injury by examining a city-wide burn database in Tokyo. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A descriptive study was conducted in 14 burn centers using the Tokyo Burn Unit Association registry from 1999-2020. The pandemic started in 2020, while the stay-at-home order lasted from April to May. The demographics, mechanisms, severity, and clinical outcomes were assessed before and during these two time periods. RESULTS: In total, 7061 patients with burn injury were enrolled. During the pandemic, there were less patients during the pandemic than previous years, except for April-May; this decreased toward the end of 2020. There were also more scald/contact burns in the upper extremity, less intended and assault injuries, shorter length of hospital stay, and lower in-hospital mortality. During the stay-at-home order, there was increased incidence of flame burns, inhalation injuries, and in-hospital mortality, as well as higher total body surface area of full-thickness burns. CONCLUSIONS: This study described the characteristics of burns during the COVID-19 pandemic. The association between the stay-at-home order and severity of burns should be further examined.

Innovations in Infection Prevention and Treatment.

Background: Patients with large, acute burn injuries are a major challenge for clinicians. The loss of skin barrier protection against micro-organisms combined with the induced immunosuppression after burn injury makes this population especially vulnerable to infection. For burn-injured patients who survive immediate management considerations and burn resuscitation after acute injury, sepsis remains the primary cause of death. The purpose of this article is to describe current strategies and innovations in burn sepsis prevention and management. Methods: This work reviews the current understanding of the systemic inflammatory response to burn injury and burn sepsis as well as current strategies in insolation and infection prevention, newer burn unit design strategies in the context of infection prevention, and novel therapies being considered in topical antimicrobial wound care management. Results: A review of burn sepsis is key to understanding current paradigms and innovation in burn management and prevention. Key management principles begin from the time of injury and persist throughout the patient's hospital course. This includes use of personal protective equipment, burn unit design considerations, and knowledge of critical care principles such as central venous catheter management strategies. Innovations on wound dressing types, forms, and use have been key to better controlling burn wound sepsis and improving wound healing. Products incorporating nanotechnology, novel anions, oxygen, and even light have been key to introducing previously unconsidered methods to fight or prevent infection. Conclusion: Understanding the pathophysiology and source identification of sepsis from burn wounds has been a key contributor in developing innovative prevention and therapeutic strategies in burn management. The emergence of drug-resistant pathogens and the difficulty of systemic antibiotic agents to reach poorly vascularized wounds have further reinforced the need to anticipate management strategies moving forward. A proactive, multidisciplinary approach is necessary to minimize the morbidity and mortality associated with infection control.