Assistência pediátrica ao paciente queimado: proposta de protocolo institucional

Abstract

Context: Burns represent the second most common cause of accidents in childhood, ranking fifth among non-fatal pediatric injuries and the third leading cause of trauma-related deaths in children. In Brazil, between 2022 and 2023, approximately 14,000 hospitalizations of children and adolescents due to burns were recorded in the Unified Health System (SUS), highlighting the need for standardized care protocols to optimize the management of this population. Objective: To synthesize the most recent care strategies for the management of burns in the pediatric population. Methodology: Narrative review in PubMed/MEDLINE and SciELO (January 2025 to January 2026), supplemented by international guidelines. Selection criteria: Studies in Portuguese/English on children and adolescents aged 0-13 years (incomplete) with burns, prioritizing publications from 2010-2025. Works focused on adults, case reports, and duplicates were excluded. Data collection and analysis: Selection by titles, abstracts, and full texts. A total of 61 references organized into nine thematic axes of clinical management, supporting a structured institutional protocol. Results: The synthesis of evidence demonstrated that adequate management of pediatric burns requires a systematic and multidisciplinary approach. The integration of the recommendations resulted in a practical institutional protocol, aligned with international guidelines and adapted to HC- UFU. Conclusion: Pediatric burns constitute a relevant public health problem, with significant morbidity and mortality when inadequately managed. Appropriate initial care, judicious fluid resuscitation, effective pain control, and complication prevention are determinants of prognosis. The use of evidence-based protocols is fundamental to ensure standardization of care, reduce care errors, and ensure quality of care, regardless of individual professional experience. The systematization of care through clear guidelines represents an essential tool for optimizing outcomes and reducing sequelae in this vulnerable population.