A 1 YEAR PROSPECTIVE STUDY OF BURN INJURIES ADMITTED IN A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL IN NORTH KARNATAKA, INDIA

Background and objectives: Burn injuries are one of the most tragic of all injuries throughout the world. This study was done to assess the socio demographic profile, type and source of burn, mode, outcome and severity of the burn injuries so that an effective need based awareness can be generated among the general population to address the most vulnerable population of women and children, industrial and hazardous occupational workers. Methods: A 1year prospective study of all burn injury patients admitted in Hangal Shri Kumareshwar Hospital and medical research center, Bagalkot from January 1st to December 31st, 2014 were included in the study after informed consent. Data was collected on a pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire from the patient or their care taker. Ethical clearance was obtained from Institutional review board. Data was analyzed using chi square test and percentages. Results: Ninety-two patients were admitted to the burns ward of Hangal Sri Kumareshwar Hospital, Bagalkot during the study period. The number of male patients was 47 contributing to 51.09% of the admissions. Majority (38.04%) was between 21-30 years of age. Majority of the injuries (80.43%) occurred at home whereas 19.57% occurred outdoors (p=0.0022). Majority of the injuries (72.82%) were alleged accidental. It was observed that majority38.04%) succumbed to their burn injury. With regard to females injured, 48.89% died whereas 40.43% of the males recovered (p=0.0133). Conclusion: Burn injury is a preventable cause of death if caution is taken by all concerned