Burns of the hand. Thermal, chemical, and electrical
Hentz, V.R.
Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America 3(2): 391-403
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0733-8627 PMID: 3996305 Document Number: 257957
The principles of emergency management of the burned hand include early estimate of the depth of injury; prevention of unnecessary post-burn sequelae, such as edema formation and joint stiffness; and measures to ensure prompt healing of the wound. A successful outcome requires correct splinting interspersed with early active motion, control of infection with frequent dressing changes, and early referral to a hand surgeon if the wound cannot be expected to heal by two weeks.