St. Anne's Ward

Dressings are normally changed every 3 days on the ward however, depending on the type of burn, they may need to be changed daily or re-paddedreplaced before this time. Even though it may be upsetting for both you and your child, a bath is the best way to clean and assess the injury.

There are many different types of dressings in use, but the best option will be chosen following assessment of the burn at each COD. Photos and wound swabs are taken at least weekly to observe and record changes. These are used to show staff involved, who are unable to attend dressing change, to see how the burn is progressing.

In some cases, it may be necessary for your child to have a surgical procedure called a Split Skin Graft (SSG). This will be explained in more detail if required.

A burn can be quite painful especially for the first few days and during/after COD. Your child will be on regular pain relief including paracetamol, ibuprofen and other stronger analgesics depending on pain levels and requirements. They will always get analgesia prior to COD and some will get a mild sedative (‘sleepy medicine’) which will help reduce some anxiety during this stressful time.

As burns heal, they can become itchy. An antihistamine will be prescribed when and if needed. Also, moisturising the healed skin is effective in managing itch.

A good nutritional diet – high protein, high calorie – is important for wound healing. We will monitor your child’s dietary intake closely and will advise accordingly. It may be necessary to pass a nasogastric tube (through the nose into the tummy) to assist with feeding if he/she is not eating/drinking adequately. This will be discussed further if needed.

It can be common for your child to spike a temperature of >38C after COD and it doesn’t necessarily mean there is a problem. However, if it persists, it may be necessary to do further investigations i.e. blood tests, chest x-ray, urine sample, ear nose and throat review, to out rule other sources of infection. It may also be necessary to involve the Infectious Diseases team with regards to possibly commencing antibiotics.