Burns. I. Assessment.

The emergency department treatment of burn injuries requires a thorough evaluation of extent and depth of injury and an understanding of the pathophysiology involved. Fluid resuscitation must be instituted promptly and pursued vigorously. Other aspects of resuscitation demand varying priorities in different patients. Small wounds can be cared for on an outpatient basis, but patients with larger burns or those involving important functional areas should be admitted for inpatient care.