Urgent Burn Care

Burns covering >20% of the total body surface area (TBSA), or those with smoke inhalation injury (and airway or breathing problems), are life threatening. Burns that affect vision, decrease hand function, or cause severe pain can take the warfighter out of action.

Hypothermia risk is high in burn patients. Anticipate that all burn casualties will become hypothermic and take immediate measures to prevent it by covering patient. Aggressively rewarm if temperature falls below 36°C (96.8°F).

Telemedicine: Management of burns is complex. Also, burns are highly visual and a lot can be communicated via pictures or video. Establish telemedicine consult as soon as possible.

US Army Institute of Surgical Research, (USAISR) Burn Center

DSN 312-429-2876 (429-BURN)

Commercial (210) 916-2876 or (210) 222-2876

E-mail to usarmy.jbsa.medcom-aisr.list.armyburncenter@health.mil