Bath-water scalds in children and thermostatic mixer valves

Background Scalds in children caused by hot bath-water have been virtually eliminated in countries where thermostatic mixer valve (TMV) devices have been introduced. We aimed to determine the frequency and severity of these injuries in our region and estimate reduction in workload and cost if TMVs were introduced in the future. Methods A retrospective review was conducted of case-notes for all bath-water scalds patients aged under 16 years, admitted to the Northern Regional Burn Centre from the 1 January 1997 until 1 January 2005. Results One hundred and twenty-five patients were admitted over this period. Their average ± S.D. age was 35.7 ± 27.23 months. Scalds ranged from 0.5 to 45% total burn surface area (mean 9.3 ± 9.15%). These patients stayed in hospital for an average of 6.3 ± 5.58 days and 18 (14.4%) required tangential excision and split skin grafting. Discussion These injuries are: painful, psychologically disturbing and potentially preventable. The care of these children has significant cost implications, which could be reduced with the introduction of proposed legislation to enforce the installation of TMVs into all newly built houses. We are in favour of such legislation to prevent any further unnecessary suffering and cost arising from these accidents.