referral criteria for burns
The minimum threshold for referral suggested by the British Burn Association can be summarised as:
- All burns ≥2% TBSA in children or ≥3% TBSA in adults
- All full thickness burns
- All circumferential burns
- Any burn not healed in 2 weeks
- Any burn with suspicion of non-accidental injury should be referred to a burn unit/centre for expert assessment within 24 hours
In addition, the following factors should prompt a discussion with a consultant in a specialised burn care service and consideration given to referral:
- All burns to hands, feet, face, perineum, or genitalia
- Any chemical, electrical or friction burn
- Any cold injury
- Any unwell/febrile child with a burn
- Any concerns regarding burn injuries and co-morbidities that may affect treatment or healing of the burn
If the above criterie not met, continue with local care and dressings as required