Prevent infection
- Major sources of pathogens:
- Intestine: Mucosa of intestine normally prevent bacteria in the GI to pass into the
blood stream. But when blood vessels loose its permeability (due to burn), bacteria
pass from the GI into circulation and causes infection. - Environment
- Intestine: Mucosa of intestine normally prevent bacteria in the GI to pass into the
- Eschar (a nonviable crust with no blood supply) vent leukocytes & antibodies to reach
the area.
- Wound infection may lead to septicemia.
Wound cleaning
- Hydrotherapy (whirl pool)
- Antiseptics added to the water
- Temp kept between 37 - 38º C
- Warmth allow for easier movement of joints which will prevent contracture
- Movement of water will remove dead tissue.
- Topical Antibacterial Therapy
- They does not sterilize the burn wound; but they reduce the number of bacteria. The
overall microbial population can be controlled by the body's host defense mechanisms.
- Wound Dressing
- Remove old dressing gently,? Give analgesia to control pain.
- Remove old ointment and clean thoroughly.
- Allow for movement at joint areas.
- The fingers and toes should be wrapped individually to promote adequate healing
- Burns to the face may be left open to air once they have been cleaned and the topical
agent has been applied.
Dressing the Burn Wound
- After burn wounds are cleaned and debrided, topical antibiotics are reapplied to
prevent infection