Initial management of burn patients in non-specialized centers: a comprehensive approach to stabilization and referral

Héctor Cisneros Pérez; Mario Hernandez Mancillas; Rafael Delgado Duarte; Claudia Guadalupe López Galaviz; Cesar del Río Robles; Alondra Guadalupe Romero Ibarra

doi:10.18203/2349-2902.isj20252703

Authors

Héctor Cisneros Pérez Department of General Surgery, Hospital del Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado Zacatecas, Zacatecas, México
Mario Hernandez Mancillas Department of General Surgery, Hospital del Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado Zacatecas, Zacatecas, México
Rafael Delgado Duarte Department of General Surgery, Hospital del Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado Zacatecas, Zacatecas, México
Claudia Guadalupe López Galaviz Department of General Surgery, Hospital del Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado Zacatecas, Zacatecas, México
Cesar del Río Robles Department of Emergency, Hospital del Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado Zacatecas, Zacatecas, México
Alondra Guadalupe Romero Ibarra Department of Emergency, Hospital del Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado Zacatecas, Zacatecas, México

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-2902.isj20252703

Keywords:

Burn injury, Initial stabilization, Non-specialized center, Fluid resuscitation, Wound management, Trauma care, Emergency medicine, Referral protocol

Abstract

The initial management of burn patients in non-specialized healthcare facilities is a critical determinant of clinical outcomes, requiring prompt and systematic intervention to mitigate complications and optimize recovery. Given the pathophysiological complexity of burn injuries—encompassing thermal, chemical, and electrical etiologies—early assessment and stabilization are paramount to prevent secondary systemic insults such as hypovolemic shock, infection, and multi-organ dysfunction. This article delineates evidence-based protocols for primary evaluation, fluid resuscitation, wound care, and analgesia in resource-limited settings, emphasizing the importance of early referral to specialized burn units when indicated. By integrating principles of trauma care with burn-specific interventions, healthcare providers in non-specialized centers can significantly influence morbidity and mortality rates, bridging the gap between initial presentation and definitive treatment.

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