What is the priority for transporting patients with severe full thickness burns?

When managing patients with severe full thickness burns, the priority is to transport them directly to the closest most appropriate Burn Center. This is because burn centers are specifically equipped to handle the unique complications and treatment needs that arise from severe burns, including specialized care for the wounds, pain management, and potential surgical interventions such as skin grafting.

Burn Centers have staff with specialized training and access to a multidisciplinary team that can provide comprehensive care tailored to burn injuries. They also possess advanced resources and technology necessary for effective treatment, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, specialized dressing materials, and techniques for minimizing scarring.

In contrast, transporting to outpatient centers, which are generally meant for less critical care, or to the closest hospital without specialized burn resources may not provide the level of care needed for severe burns. Similarly, merely going to an emergency department could delay the critical care necessary for the patient's specific condition, rather than ensuring immediate access to the specialized support of a Burn Center. Thus, directing a patient with severe full thickness burns to the most appropriate Burn Center directly improves their chances of a better outcome.