1. Introduction
The importance of accurate history taking cannot be underestimated
during the initial assessment of acute burns.
Specific details in the history can assist in making a diagnosis
when the depth of a burn is indeterminate, for example in
scald injuries [1].
The depth and severity of a burn is related to the
temperature of the causative agent and the duration of
exposure [2]. Temperatures as low as 44 8C can result in a
burn if exposure time is longer than 6 h, whereas total tissue
destruction can occur within seconds of exposure to temperatures
above 70 8C [2].
Scalds remain a common cause of burns, especially in
children, and frequently occur within the home. Common
scalding agents include boiling water, tea and coffee but
numerous other hot liquids can cause burns [1].