Where should burn patients with 2nd and 3rd degree burns over the face and neck be transported?

Burn patients with 2nd and 3rd degree burns located on the face and neck require specialized care due to the significant potential for complications such as airway issues, scarring, and psychological impact. The optimal destination for such patients is a facility that specializes in burn care. A Medical Assessment and Referral (MAR) center is typically equipped to handle these severe cases, providing both assessment and the necessary resources to transport the patient to an appropriate burn center if needed.

While trauma centers are designed to handle severe injuries, they may not have the specialized burn treatment resources available. General hospitals may lack the necessary burn expertise and facilities to manage severe burn injuries effectively. Emergency rooms certainly can provide immediate care, but they are not the best option for the long-term management of severe burns, especially when specialized care is critical for patients with burns over vulnerable areas like the face and neck.

Ultimately, patients with extensive burns should be sent to a facility capable of managing complex burn injuries to ensure the best possible outcomes.