Where should a patient with SJS or TEN be treated?

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are severe, life-threatening skin reactions that require immediate and specialized medical intervention. Patients experiencing these conditions suffer from extensive skin damage that can lead to fluid loss, infection, and significant complications.

Being treated in a burn unit is appropriate for these patients because burn units are equipped to manage patients with extensive skin damage. They provide specialized care, including wound care, fluid replacement, and pain management, all of which are crucial for recovery. The staff in burn units are trained to handle the complexities involved with severe skin injuries and can provide the necessary level of monitoring and support.

In contrast, treatment in a general hospital ward, primary care clinic, or outpatient facility does not provide the specialized resources and expertise required for such severe skin conditions, which can deteriorate rapidly without proper care. Hence, the burn unit is the most suitable choice for managing patients with SJS or TEN.