Table 3 Recommendations for the intensivist

Accurate measurement of burn size using a Lund–Browder chart

Carefully titrated fluid resuscitation, to balance risks of edema formation with those of ongoing hypoperfusion

Early initiation of effective topical antimicrobial therapy (mafenide acetate or silver-based creams/dressings)

Daily inspection of the wounds by a qualified surgeon or wound care expert

Early excision and grafting of all full thickness and deep partial thickness burns

Aggressive treatment of infected wounds (resuscitate, broad-spectrum topical and systemic antimicrobials, excision, or re-excision)

Rehabilitation in the ICU to minimize the functional consequences of prolonged immobilization and contracture formation