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Tap-water scald burns. Awareness is not the problem
L E Adams1, G F Purdue, J L Hunt
1Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Parkland Memorial Hospital, Dallas 75235-9031.
The Journal of Burn Care & Rehabilitation
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Tap-water scald burns disproportionately affect children and the elderly. Despite awareness, individuals with burn experience did not adjust water heater temperatures, indicating a need for targeted burn prevention programs.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Burn Prevention
- Pediatric Safety
Background:
- Tap-water scald burns are a significant injury, particularly affecting pediatric and elderly populations.
- Neurologically impaired individuals are also at high risk for tap-water-related injuries.
- Existing awareness of tap-water burn risks does not always translate to preventative behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess public knowledge regarding tap-water scald burn risks.
- To evaluate awareness of home tap-water temperatures.
- To identify gaps in burn prevention behaviors among high-risk groups.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted to measure general knowledge of tap-water injuries.
- Awareness of home tap-water temperatures was assessed.
- Respondents' experiences with tap-water burns and subsequent actions were recorded.
Main Results:
- Survey respondents recognized the potential for tap-water scald burns.
- Few believed they could tolerate hot tap water for extended periods.
- Individuals with prior tap-water burn experience had not reduced their water heater thermostat settings.
Conclusions:
- Awareness of tap-water burn risks is present but insufficient to modify behavior.
- There is a critical need for economical and effective programs targeting high-risk groups.
- Burn reduction behaviors require targeted interventions beyond general awareness campaigns.