Oral fluid therapy in paediatric burns (5–10%): an appraisal

Fluid therapy by the oral route is the accepted method of treatment for smaller burns in children (less than 10%). [Settle JAD. Burns—the first five days. Essex: Smith and Nephew Pharmaceuticals Ltd, 1986.] A phone survey was carried out of all the hospitals in the United Kingdom that manage burns, to record their oral fluid therapy practices for burns (5–10% BSA) in paediatric patients. Included in the survey was an assessment of the uniformity of the contents of the fluids, their palatability and acceptance by patients and any side-effects from this form of treatment. There appears to be no uniformity in policies regarding fluid therapy in children with this percentage of burns. Treatment ranged from a formula guided resusciation therapy (as practised generally with large burns) to a ‘drink as you like’ policy. Fluids used varied from electrolyte to non-electrolyte containing solutions and fruit juices and were, therefore, markedly different in content. The electrolyte solutions were reported as being non-palatable unless flavoured with fruit juices. No complication was reported although one unit queried a possible case of fluid overload. Potential complications from this mode of therapy are discussed. The cost implications of using various fluid types are also presented.