The effect of burn nursing units on burn wound infections

Temporary closure of our burn unit allowed evaluation of the effect of a closed unit on infection rates. During renovations, burned patients were treated either in private ward rooms or in the intensive care unit by burn unit nursing staff using the same wound care practices as used in the burn unit. Data regarding burn severity and outcome were collected and compared for all patients treated before (Group A), during (Group B), and after (Group C) renovations. Burned surface area, average age, and hospital stay were statistically similar for each group. Incidence of infection differed significantly (P < 0.005) with 47% of Group B developing infection compared with 11 and 23% for Groups A and C respectively. Mortality rates were not significantly different. Despite consistent wound care the incidence of infection increased nearly two-fold to four-fold when patients were treated out of the unit. We recommend a temporary isolation unit during renovations if possible.