Paediatric Burns and Treatment

Paediatric burns can be traumatic for both the child and the parents. Learning how you can respond promptly and appropriately to such incidents can prevent complications and aid in quicker recovery for your children.

This article will discuss paediatric burns, first aid steps, and when to seek medical attention.

Paediatric Burns Treatment Singapore

Understanding Paediatric Burns

Paediatric burns refer to burns that occur in children. They range from minor burns that can be treated at home to severe burns requiring immediate medical attention. Burns in children can be more serious than in adults due to children’s thinner skin, which causes them to suffer deeper burns from shorter exposure to heat.

While burns can happen in various ways, such as thermal, chemical, electrical, and scalds, parents must recognise the different types and take preventive measures to protect their children.

Common Causes of Paediatric Burns

Scalds from hot liquids

Scald burns occur when a child's skin comes in contact with hot liquids, such as boiling water, tea, coffee, or soup. These burns are most common in children under five and can cause severe injuries in seconds.

Flame injuries

Children can suffer burns from direct contact with open flames, such as candles, fireplaces, lighters, or sparklers. Flame burns can cause deep tissue damage and may result in complications if not treated promptly.

Electrical burns

Electrical burns occur when a child comes into contact with live electrical wiring, sockets, or electrical appliances. These types of burns are hazardous as they can damage internal tissues and organs without causing severe external skin damage.

Chemical burns

Chemical burns occur when a child's skin or eyes come in contact with harmful substances such as household cleaners, bleach, or battery acid. These burns can significantly damage the skin and other tissues and require immediate attention.

First Aid for Paediatric Burns

Immediate Steps to Take

Cool the burn with running water

The first and most important step in treating a burn is cooling it with cool (not cold) running water for 10–20 minutes. This helps reduce pain, limit the severity of the burn, and prevent further tissue damage.

Avoid applying ice or butter

Do not press ice directly to the burn, as it can worsen the injury by causing frostbite or tissue damage. Likewise, traditional remedies such as butter should be avoided, as they can trap heat within the skin and increase the risk of infection.

Cover the burn with a clean cloth

After cooling the burn, protect it with a clean, non-stick dressing, such as gauze or a sterile bandage. This will help shield the wound from bacteria and prevent further injury. Avoid using fluffy cotton or adhesive bandages, as they can stick to the burn and cause pain when removed.

When to seek medical attention

While some burns can be treated at home, others require immediate medical care. Knowing when to see a doctor can result in a better outcome for your child.

Identifying Severe Burns

Burns larger than the size of the child's palm

If the burn covers an area larger than the child's palm, it is considered severe and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Burns on the face, hands, or genital area

Burns on sensitive areas such as the face, hands, feet, or genitals require immediate medical attention, as they are more prone to complications and can affect the child's functionality in the long term.

Deep burns or those with blisters

A doctor should assess burns that appear deep, white, or charred or that form large blisters. These burns can cause significant damage to underlying tissues and may require surgical intervention.

Burn Treatment Options in Singapore

Hospitals and clinics with burn treatment facilities

Several hospitals and specialised burn centres in Singapore are equipped with paediatric burn units, providing comprehensive care from the initial emergency response to rehabilitation. Hospitals such as KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH) and the National University Hospital (NUH) have dedicated paediatric teams specialising in treating burn injuries.

Role of paediatric plastic surgeons in severe cases

In cases of severe burns that result in significant tissue damage, paediatric plastic surgeons may be involved in treatment to help repair and reconstruct damaged skin. At Argent Plastic Surgery, for instance, we use various reconstructive techniques to reduce scarring, improve functionality of affected areas, and enhance the child's recovery.

Prevention of Paediatric Burns

Preventing burns is the best way to protect children from the physical and emotional trauma that comes with these injuries. Simple safety measures at home can significantly reduce the risk of burns.

Safety Measures at Home

Childproofing the kitchen and bathroom

Keep hot liquids and cooking appliances out of reach, and install childproof locks on ovens and stovetops. Bathrooms should have thermostatic mixing valves to prevent scalds from hot water.

Safe handling of hot liquids and appliances

Never leave hot drinks or food within a child's reach, and always supervise children when using appliances such as kettles, toasters, or irons. Additionally, ensure that electrical outlets are covered and cords are safely tucked away.

Support and Resources for Families

Dealing with the painful aftermath of a burn injury can overwhelm the child and their family. Support in the form of rehabilitation and counselling can be invaluable.

Rehabilitation and Counselling

Importance of physical therapy for recovery

After severe burns, physical therapy may be necessary to help the child build mobility and strength in the affected areas. Early intervention through physical therapy can prevent long-term issues, such as joint stiffness and muscle weakness.

Psychological support for trauma

Children who have suffered severe burns may experience emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress. Counselling and psychological support for both the child and their family can help them cope with the emotional impact of the injury.

Paediatric Burns Treatment in Singapore

By understanding the causes, first aid, and treatment options for paediatric burns, parents can better protect their children and ensure  they receive timely, effective care if an accident occurs.

At Argent Plastic Surgery, children with burn injuries receive specialised care. Our clinic provides comprehensive burn treatment services that address minor and severe paediatric burns. Surgical interventions such as skin grafts and tissue reconstruction are available for more severe burns to help repair and restore damaged areas.

Book a consultation for paediatric burn treatment today.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should take your child to the hospital if the burn is larger than the child's palm, affects sensitive areas (like the face or hands), or appears deep or blistered.

Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or an unusual odour from the wound. Fever or increased pain can also indicate an infection.

Yes, burns can leave permanent scars, especially if they are deep. However, early and proper treatment can help reduce the appearance of scars, and interventions such as skin grafts and laser therapy can improve outcomes.

Recovery from a severe burn can take months and may involve multiple treatments, including wound care, surgeries, physical therapy, and psychological support. The child's care team will guide the process to ensure optimal recovery.

Long-term effects of burn injuries can include scarring, limited mobility in the affected area, and psychological effects such as trauma or anxiety. Rehabilitation and counselling can help address these challenges.