The Role of Nurses in the Management of Rare Dermatological Conditions: Evidence and Practice of Major Burns

Abstract

Background: Major burn injuries are among the most severe types of trauma, requiring specialized care for optimal recovery. In the United States alone, burn-related fatalities range from 4,000 to 6,000 annually. While burns affect the skin primarily, they can compromise every physiological system. Nurses are the first responders to burn cases and are crucial in the initial management and stabilization of burn victims. Understanding burn classification, initial management, and the roles of healthcare providers, particularly nurses, is essential to improve patient outcomes.

Aim: The aim of this article is to explore the role of nurses in managing major burn injuries, particularly rare dermatological conditions such as full-thickness and extensive burns, emphasizing their involvement in burn classification, resuscitation, and wound care in the critical first 48 hours.

Methods: This article synthesizes current literature on burn care, focusing on the role of nurses in the management of severe burn injuries. It reviews various burn classifications, resuscitation methods, wound care strategies, and nursing interventions required for effective burn management, especially in rare and severe cases.

Results: The results indicate that nurses play a pivotal role in the early management of burn injuries, including accurate burn classification, airway protection, fluid resuscitation, and pain management. Nursing interventions during the first 48 hours can significantly impact survival and recovery. Moreover, specific management protocols, such as the Parkland Formula for fluid resuscitation and the Rule of Nines for burn surface area estimation, are integral in guiding treatment strategies.

Conclusion: The article concludes that nurses are critical in the initial management of major burn injuries, including rare dermatological conditions. Their involvement in early assessments, fluid management, airway protection, and pain control can greatly influence the clinical outcomes of burn patients. Further research and continuous education on burn care are needed to improve nursing practices in burn units.