Initial resuscitation of major burn patients

Family physicians living in rural areas must be familiar with the initial stages of resuscitation of the major burn patient, as they may often be the providers of first contact before the patient is transferred to a burn center. Correct initial resuscitation may have an impact on morbidity and mortality in the subsequent early recovery period. The mnemonic SAVE A PATIENT is useful in reminding one of each of the steps that must be considered in the initial resuscitation of such patient.