The cost of a hot drink scald

Approximately 6400 children per year are admitted to UK hospitals for treatment of burns [National Burn Care Review Committee Report (NBCRC). Standards and Strategy for Burn Care: a review of burn care in the British Isles. 2001.]. This paper investigates the financial costs involved in the management of uncomplicated, minor paediatric scalds. Three cases (2–4% TBSA scalds) were studied to quantify consumables used, services required during management and costs obtained from appropriate Purchasing Departments and Directorate Accountants. Management in all cases involved a general anaesthetic for cleaning of wounds, application of BioBrane® (Bertek Pharmaceuticals) and dressings, observation on Childrenʹs Ward and discharge following wound review at 48 h. The calculated mean average cost per case was £1850. In the period 01/12/2002–30/11/2003, 144 children were admitted to Frenchay hospital, Bristol, for treatment of a minor burn or scald (less than 10%TBSA). This caseload is therefore estimated to currently cost £266,400 per year. These findings may facilitate improved planning for future resource allocation and could also contribute evidence towards the cost effectiveness of prevention strategies.