Feel the Burn

Hand burns from thermal injuries are common chief complaints in the emergency department. Sometimes, 2nd- and 3rd-degree burns may need immediate interventions and warrant special attention. These injuries are painful, and often have associated complications such as permanent scarring, cosmetic issues, prolonged pain, and even infection. ED providers can assist with the primary complications related to blistering of the hand or extremity. Careful follow-up and a detailed discharge plan produce better outcomes and minimize overall complications. Full body/surface burns or circumferential burns should always be seen and evaluated by a local burn center. Burns related to alkaline, gas, fire, poisons, and chemicals may require expert consultation and possible admission to the burn center.   The patient’s burn featured in the photos below occurred about 48 hours before ED arrival. The patient, a chef, accidentally placed his hand on a hot flat-plate grill while cooking in a restaurant. The initial burn surface was not swollen or raised, but it began to swell uncontrollably over 24 hours. The swelling fluid pocket produced significant pain and restriction of the first digit. The patient came to the ED hoping we could drain the site and preserve the soft tissue of his hands.     The American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) classifies burns into four categories: 1st degree: superficial, redness of skin without blisters; 2nd degree: partial thickness skin damage, blisters...
Source: The Procedural Pause - Category: Emergency Medicine Tags: Blog Posts Source Type: blogs