Mortality in the Burn Intensive Care Unit (2017-2023) at Mohammed VI University Hospital, Department of Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Marrakech

This internal audit aims to evaluate the management of burn patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) of Mohammed VI University Hospital in Marrakech, a specialized burn treatment center in Morocco. The retrospective study spans from 2017 to 2023, analyzing the deaths of 27 patients admitted to the ICU, with an average age of 62. The primary causes of death identified were septic shock (54%) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (18%). Key challenges emerged, including nursing staff shortages, inadequate stock management of dressing materials, and the absence of care assistants, all of which impacted the quality of care provided. The study also underscores the importance of improved care organization, drawing from international best practices. The report proposes several solutions, such as increasing nursing staff, optimizing workflows, and improving sanitary infrastructure to minimize infection risks. A crucial recommendation involves reassessing admission criteria to ensure that critically ill patients are redirected to appropriate units, particularly by strengthening the presence of full-time intensivists in the burn ICU. Furthermore, the report highlights the need for continuous training of medical personnel and interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance the quality of care. The introduction of assistive technologies and companion programs for isolated patients would also improve their nutritional and psychological support. These initiatives could alleviate the burden on medical staff and improve patient outcomes. By implementing these recommendations, the burn ICU could be transformed into a model of excellence, providing optimal, safe, and respectful care tailored to the individual needs of burn patients. This audit serves as a foundation for ongoing improvement, emphasizing patient safety and well-being as the core priorities in burn patient management.