Management of line and catheter complications in major paediatric burns

Victoria Lo¹, Paul Baker¹, Lindsay Damkat-Thomas¹, Mohammad Nassimizadeh Richard Wong She¹,
¹Te Whatu Ora – Counties Manukau, Auckland New Zealand

Abstract

Lines and catheters are necessary for both monitoring and provision of care following major burn injury. Patient length of stay can be prolonged and as such these tubes can remain in situ for longer durations when compared to other patient groups. This increases the risk of associated complications. Monitoring lines can also require regular change of anatomical location.

We discuss management of complications encountered with multiple lines and tubes during the journey of a massively burn injured paediatric patient. Discussion will include complications we encountered with the endotracheal tube, naso-jejunal, naso-gastric, central venous, PICC, indwelling urinary catheter and subcutaneous lines.

We consider strategies to minimise these line and tube complications as they represent some of the many challenges for burn care providers managing major paediatric burn injuries. The protocols and care bundles used for our paediatric practice will be presented.

Biography

Current Burn Fellow at the New Zealand National Burns Centre, qualified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon