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Pediatric sink-bathing: a risk for scald burns
Kaitlin Baggott1, Angela Rabbitts, Nicole E Leahy
1*Department of Surgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York; and †Department of Surgery, William Randolph Hearst Burn Center, NewYork Presbyterian, New York, New York.
Summary
Sink scald burns are a significant risk for young children, with 56 pediatric patients admitted over five years. Sinks are unsafe for bathing due to proximity to hot water controls, necessitating targeted prevention education.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric burn injuries
- Public health and safety
Background:
- Tap water scald burns are a recognized issue in burn centers.
- The specific mechanisms and prevalence of sink-related scald burns in pediatric patients were not well-defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the extent of pediatric scald burns sustained while bathing in a sink.
- To inform the development of an effective prevention program for this specific injury type.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of pediatric patients (0-5 years) admitted with sink-related scald burns.
- Data collected included demographics, burn size, length of stay, and surgical interventions.
Main Results:
- 56 pediatric patients were admitted for sink scald burns between 2003 and 2008, representing 54% of bathing-related scalds.
- The majority of affected children were boys (56%) and Hispanic (45%), with a mean age of 0.8 years.
- Average burn size was 5% TBSA, with an 11-day hospital stay, and 10.7% required skin grafting.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric scald burns from bathing in sinks remain prevalent, highlighting a significant safety hazard.
- Sinks pose a risk due to limited space and child's proximity to water controls.
- Comprehensive burn prevention education must address the dangers of bathing children in sinks.
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