What is the recommended transport destination for a burn patient with 30% TBSA partial thickness circumferential arm burns?

A burn patient with 30% Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) partial thickness circumferential arm burns requires specialized care due to the significant extent and nature of the injuries. The recommendation for transport to a regional burn center is based on several factors.

Burn centers are equipped with the resources, expertise, and specialized staff to manage complex burn injuries effectively. They have advanced capabilities for burn treatment, including wound management, pain control, fluid resuscitation, and the potential for surgical interventions such as skin grafts. Circumferential burns, particularly on limbs, present unique risks, including potential compartment syndrome due to swelling that can compromise blood flow and lead to serious complications.

In contrast, while local hospitals may be able to provide initial treatment for burns, they often lack the specialized training and facilities necessary to handle extensive or complicated burns, especially those involving significant TBSA. Transporting the patient directly to a burn center ensures that they receive the most appropriate and timely care tailored to their needs. Other choices, such as a pediatric intensive care unit or a trauma center, may not have the same specialized focus on burn injuries, making a regional burn center the most suitable destination.