Advances in Burn Care in Hong Kong: Reflecting on a Decade of Expert Experiences from Local Practice with an International Perspective

Abstract

The nursing implications of burn injuries extend beyond the immediate health concerns over the loss of skin integrity, the presence of scarring, and the psychological impacts on patients due to disfigurement. Non-fatal burns may lead to long-term disabilities, hence advanced nursing care may be required to prevent such outcomes. In Hong Kong, advances have been made to ensure that sophisticated nursing services and care are in place for affected patients. This chapter discusses how burn injuries are managed at different levels within a publicly funded acute care framework, explains how professional competencies regarding burn care are developed among burn care nurses, delineates the roles of medical technology in supporting wound assessment, explains the application of novel dressing materials for various burn wound conditions, and outlines how the establishment of nurse-led clinics can promote the continuity of care for patients with burn injuries. Written with an international perspective with the authors’ practice experiences in Hong Kong (China), this chapter provides evidence-based reference for registered nurses in general, specialty nurses, nurse practitioners, and nurse consultants worldwide.