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Paediatric burns — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateEmergency paediatricsPaediatric burnsRACP Paediatrics

A 2-year-old has hot-water scalds to the anterior trunk and one arm. The burn is partial thickness and estimated at 15% total body surface area; he is distressed and shivering. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: E — Analgesia, cooling if within window, fluid assessment and burns unit referral

A 15% partial-thickness burn in a toddler needs adequate analgesia, appropriate first aid, fluid assessment and specialist burns referral. Antibiotics are not routine for clean acute burns and home care is inappropriate for this size. The pearl is that pain control and hypothermia prevention are immediate priorities during burn assessment.

Reference: RCH Clinical Practice Guidelines: Burns; Australian and New Zealand Burn Association referral criteria