Thermal and chemical burns

Burn injuries are one of the most frequently encountered incidents for prehospital providers. Prioritized response, patient assessment and management, and safe, timely transport of the burn patient to a designated burn center within an organized regional system are correlated with significantly improved patient outcomes. Educating EMS providers to apply critical thinking to promote maintenance of oxygenation and adequate ventilation through selective airway management, maintain organ perfusion and limit secondary injury, manage pain, frequently reassess the patient, and promptly transport to the appropriate facility are all critical to appropriate management of the burn patient. Proactive medical oversight fosters optimal care through use of evidence-based treatment protocols and application of field triage criteria to appropriately direct patient destination.