NUTRITIONAL ASSESSMENT AND OUTCOME ANALYSIS IN PAEDIATRIC BURN PATIENTS: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Children are a high-risk group for burn injuries due to their curiosity and limited ability to recognise danger. Nutritional support plays a pivotal role in paediatric burn management, aiming to counter hypermetabolic stress, promote wound healing, and prevent complications related to under- or over-feeding.

 
Objectives:

To assess the nutritional status and adequacy of calorie intake in paediatric burn patients and to analyse its relationship with clinical outcomes including wound healing and mortality.

 
Methods:

A prospective observational study was conducted over six months (June – November 2024) in the Department of Burns, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Government Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai. Twenty children aged 1–6 years with 20–50% total body surface area (TBSA) burns admitted within 48 hours of injury were included. Calorie requirements were calculated using the Schofield formula, and intake was monitored using daily dietary records. Serum albumin levels were measured twice weekly to assess nutritional adequacy. Outcomes assessed included wound healing, need for grafting, and mortality.

 
Results:

Among 20 patients (8 males, 12 females), 16 (80%) survived and 4 (20%) expired. Five patients (25%) were undernourished, of whom four died. Two patients (10%) were over nourished, and both survived. Patients achieving ≥80% of calorie requirements showed earlier wound healing and higher survival. Mean serum albumin among survivors was

2.25 g/dL, compared with 1.97 g/dL in non-survivors.

 
Conclusion:

Proper nutrition also has a direct effect on recovery and survival of paediatric burn patients. The constant observation of the calorie adequacy and serum albumin is helpful in optimising nutrition in a timely manner and enhances clinical outcomes.