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Article: Burn patients in Africa die of shock or sepsis.(Critical care of burn patients in developing countries: cost versus need)(Report)
- Article from:
- CME: Your SA Journal of CPD
- Article date:
- September 1, 2008
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2008 South African Medical Association. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Recent reports reveal a 50% decline in burn-related deaths and hospital admissions in the USA over the last 20 years. (1) The reduction is probably a result of prevention efforts resulting in a decreased number of patients with potentially fatal burns, and improved critical care and wound management of those still sustaining severe burns. (2) Among those suffering moderate to severe burns and treated in First-World hospitals, most will require critical care for at least part of their hospitalisation, and some will require it for months. As many as 10% may die from complications related to the burn. (1)
Unfortunately in Africa there is not enough evidence to ...