Burns and Ingestion

Question 1

What is a minor burn?

Answer 1

necrosis to the epidermis and dermis only

Question 2

Which type of burn constitutes the majority of burns?

Answer 2

minor burns
-includes first degree and full or partial thickness burns
-small areas of the skin

Question 3

In which setting can minor burns be treated?

Answer 3

outpatient settings

Question 4

What are the potential consequences of a minor burn to a child?

Answer 4

regardless of burn depth or extent, can cause significant long-term functional, aesthetic and psychological consequences for the child

Question 5

What does the degree of a burn depend on?

Answer 5

energy transmitted
temperature
duration of exposure

Question 6

What are the most common types of 2nd degree burns in children?

Answer 6

sunburn
scold (i.e. stove top)

Question 7

What are some differences in the skin between paeds and adults?

Answer 7

children have relatively thinner skin
-can result in deeper burn wounds at any temperature
children have larger skin surface area to body mass ratio
-greater fluid and heat loss
children have larger heads

Question 8

What determines treatment for a burn?

Answer 8

if its minor or major

Question 9

What constitutes a major burn?

Answer 9

> 10% BSA
electrical or chemical burn
concomitant trauma
involving hands, feet, face, genitalia, perineum, major joint
full-thickness burn

Question 10

What constitutes a minor burn?

Answer 10

superficial, tender, dry erythema without blisters
-treated as outpatient

Question 11

Describe non-pharmacologic therapy for a minor burn.

Answer 11

cooling: for up to 20 mins with cool-to-touch tap water or cool compress
first aid for minor burns:
-remove causative agent
-cool tap water; ice is not recommended
-mild soap for gentle cleansing
-appropriate dressing
-antiseptic and disinfectants not recommended

Question 12

What are the pharmacologic options for a minor burn?

Answer 12

topical antimicrobials
-use for small superficial burn wounds but discontinue within 1 week (avoid sensitivity reactions)
-caution with products that contain anesthetic
pain control
-acet, ibu
tetanus booster
-if last shot > 5 yrs ago or unknown

Question 13

What are the treatment options for the itch from a burn?

Answer 13

moisturizing lotions
systemic antihistamines

Question 14

What are the complications of burns?

Answer 14

cellulitis
scarring

Question 15

What is the key takeaway regarding cannabis ingestion and kids?

Answer 15

prevention is key
-use legal cannabis products
-recognize that some products may look appealing to kids

Question 16

What is the management of any toxic ingestion?

Answer 16

call 911
do not make the child vomit unless instructed to do so
if the substance is present, parent should take it with them