Introduction
Burn injury is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among children, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Despite being largely preventable, it remains a significant public health problem. This study determines the pattern, management, and early outcomes of burn injuries among children admitted to a teaching hospital in Ekiti State, Nigeria.
Methods
This retrospective descriptive study reviewed the records of children aged below 18 years admitted with burn injuries between January 2015 and December 2019. Information on sociodemographic characteristics, burn patterns, aetiology, management, duration of hospitalisation, complications, and treatment outcomes was extracted and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results
Twenty-seven children were admitted with burn injuries, representing 0.4% of paediatric admissions during the study period. The median age was 24 months, and males predominated (59.3%). Scald injury was the commonest type of burn (63.0%), followed by flame burns (33.3%) and electrical burns (3.7%). Most injuries occurred at home (96.3%) and were unintentional (96.3%). Eighteen (66.7%) patients were discharged, seven (25.9%) were discharged against medical advice, one (3.7%) died, and one (3.7%) was referred. Patients with burns involving 21–50% of the total body surface area had significantly longer hospital stays (p = 0.03) and poorer outcomes (p = 0.02).
Conclusion
Childhood burn injuries were predominantly unintentional scald injuries occurring at home among children aged two years and below. Strengthening caregiver education, improving home safety, and expanding health insurance coverage may reduce the burden of childhood burns.
