Inhalation injury

The degree of pulmonary injury experienced by the burn patient is extremely variable. A working knowledge of the burning environment and the individual's condition on the scene can provide vital information for successful management of these injuries. Carbon monoxide and cyanide poisoning are major offenders in these injuries. Airway control and oxygen therapy combined with rapid transport to a burn treatment center offer these patients the best chance for recovery. On the patient's arrival to a burn center, rapid assessment of the pulmonary insult by an experienced triage team is of paramount importance. Early laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy are essential to quantify the degree of injury. Delivery of high-concentration oxygen, endotracheal intubation, close ventilator management, and aggressive pulmonary toilet help these patients avoid the early respiratory complications common to this type of injury. © 1995 Aspen Publishers, Inc.

Duke Scholars

Author Paul Wayne Armstrong Medicine, Cardiology