Emergency War Surgery NATO Handbook: Part I: Types of Wounds and Injuries: Chapter III: Burn Injury

Evacuation

United States Department of Defense

The burn patient best tolerates movement by either ground or air in the early postburn period; that is, after hemodynamic and respiratory stabilization and before the development of septic complications which may make movement particularly hazardous. Patency of the airway must be insured throughout the evacuation procedure, and continued appropriate fluid administration via a secure intravenous pathway is essential. Nasogastric intubation with adequate gastric decompression is also necessary during patient movement in the early postburn period if any gastrointestinal dysfunction exists. Bulky dressings may be used effectively during evacuation.

It is essential that adequate documentation of the patient's premovement and in-flight course be maintained and accompany the patient so that continuity of medical care is ensured. Particularly important in this regard is an adequate record of administered fluids, urinary output, medications administered, and any other features of the patient's course that will require serial evaluation, such as neurological deficit. During evacuation, the seriously ill, extensively burned patient should be accompanied by trained surgical personnel familiar with the exigencies of patient movement during the early postburn course.

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Operational Medicine 2001

Health Care in Military Settings

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