ABSTRACT
Severe burns cause a hyper-metabolic response and hyper-catabolic state requiring an increased calorie requirement. While the focus is on the immediate care of burns, for the millions who are left disabled and disfigured the leaves long-term psychological, social and economic effects for both the survivor and their families. Burns prevention programmes in low-income settings are relatively new, with few non-governmental organisations focusing on burns prevention and management. In addition, there may be no dedicated burns unit or team available, resulting in burns patients being managed in general critical care units, where mortality can be high. The principles of burns care involve resuscitation, early excision and skin grafting, infection control, wound care, pain management, nutrition and rehabilitation. Upper airway burns may cause swelling to the larynx, epiglottis and glottis. Signs and symptoms may include stridor, changes in voice and swelling. Lower airway burns may result in hypersecretion of mucus, production of carbonaceous sputum and airway obstruction.
