Burn Injuries Caused by Hot Water Bottles: Audit and Loop Closure

OBJECTIVES To reduce the annual incidence of hot water bottle burns by reviewing cases, classifying injury, invoking a multimedia campaign to increase public awareness. To stimulate state, federal, and international government review of manufacturing standards with a view to reinforcing legislation. METHODS A multimedia warning was launched following the scalding death of an elderly lady. Our database allowed identification of all patients injured by hot water bottles; their medical notes were thoroughly reviewed. RESULTS The review divided cases into bottle failure and/or patient misuse. Early legislation in New Zealand resulted in bottle withdrawal from sale, mirrored by recent legislation in Australia. Legislation and the multimedia campaign have seen admissions from hot water bottle burns markedly decreased. CONCLUSIONS Thorough audit of specific burn etiologies, with effective broadcasting of hazard, can result in reduction or abolition of future injury from that source and may prompt appropriate legislation to further protect the general public.