2026 Pediatric Symposium - Pediatric Burns

Course overview

This course will discuss the pathophysiology of burns highlighting differences between pediatric and adult. Briefly discuss treatments focusing on how to properly treat the burns and preserve evidence. We will discuss signs that can be seen upon arriving at the scene. We will discuss patterns of behavior by caregivers which may indicate an unsafe situation for the child. We will discuss and identify the point where we will transition from provider to protector and at what point law enforcement should become involved, too soon the caregiver gets nervous and shuts down, too late and the patient as well as providers are in a dangerous situation. We will discuss techniques to cope with separation from caregivers so optimal patient care can be provided. Using care studies, we will review incidents and review examples of wound patterns that indicate potential abuse. We will then address strategies and techniques to cope with the mental and emotional aftermath of such a call on the clinicians.