Burns Unit
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Introduction
Your child has had a superficial or a superficial dermal burn and we expect
it to heal by itself with the aid of dressings. Epiprotect is one of the treatment
options for this type of burn. Epiprotect is a synthetic dressing made of
sugar molecules.
It acts as a “temporary skin cover” which helps stop bacteria
reaching the wound. Epiprotect sticks to the wound and stays in place until
the wound has healed. An outer bandage will also be used.
What are the benefits of my child having a Epiprotect dressing?
Epiprotect reduces pain when the wound dressings are changed because it sticks to the wound.
Are there any risks?
In the rare instance your child may have a reaction to the Epiprotect dressing, it will be removed immediately. As with any burn wound there is a risk for infection. If this is the case, the Epiprotect will be removed from the affected area and appropriate treatment will be given.
What will happen if my child does not have a Epiprotect dressing?
Not having this dressing does not affect the outcome of the burn wound. If you have any concerns about the use of Epiprotect, please advise the Burns Team.
How is Epiprotect applied?
Epiprotect is usually applied in theatre after your child has had a general anaesthetic. If you would like further Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust information about general anaesthetics to help you make an informed decision, please talk to the medical staff.
The burn wound is surgically cleaned and the Epiprotect and a protective outer dressing will be applied. The protective dressing will stay in place for at least 48 hours. The wound will then be checked to see if the Epiprotect has stuck to the burn wound.
The staff may have to trim some of the Epiprotect if:
- it has not stuck
- there is a collection of fluid
- an infection has developed underneath
As your child’s wound heals, the Epiprotect will start to lift and will be trimmed away.
How long should Epiprotect stay in place for?
About 7-14 days. If it has not lifted off after 14 days, it will need to be removed, by wiping over the Epiprotect with liquid paraffin.
Can my child have a bath with Epiprotect on?
After the 48 hour check, your child can have a shallow bath. The Epiprotect should be kept clean and dry. You will be advised by staff if another protective dressing is needed.
Caring for your child’s wound at home
If another protective dressing has been put on, then this must be kept clean and dry. You will receive advice regarding bathing your child if the Epiprotect dressing is exposed.
Immediately contact the Burns Unit if you notice:
- An unpleasant smell coming from the wound
- If the Epiprotect is “mucky” underneath
- If your child has increased pain
- If your child appears to have a high temperature c.g.feels hot to touch, locks red or flushed
- If your child is refusing to drink or eat, or has diarrhoea or vomiting
Returning to school
The Burns staff will advise when your child should attend school or nursery.
Appointment information
When your child is discharged from the ward you will be given a clinic appointment.
Please give your child their medicine for pain relief before bringing them to clinic. It is important that your child attends the clinic. If you cannot attend please contact the Burns Unit or clinic as soon as possible.
Contact the Burns team
For more information about any of the services please contact one of the following:
Burns Unit
Tel: 0151 252 5400
Open 24/7
Physiotherapy department
Tel: 0151 252 5236
Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
Occupational Therapy department
Tel: 0151 252 5453
Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
Psychology department
Tel: 0151 252 5586
Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
This leaflet only gives general information. You must always discuss the individual treatment of your child with the appropriate member of staff. Do not rely on this leaflet alone for information about your child’s treatment.
This information can be made available in other languages and formats if requested.
Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
PIAG: 134