UNDERSTANDING MEDICOLEGAL IMPLICATIONS OF DOMESTIC BURNS: TREATMENT MODALITIES, HOSPITAL STAY AND OUTCOMES

Background: Domestic violence, including incidents of burns, poses significant challenges to healthcare and law and justice departments globally, with profound implications for physical and psychological well-being of victims of domestic violence. Understanding the treatment modalities, hospitalization durations, and outcomes among individuals affected by domestic burns is crucial for informing effective interventions and support services. Subjects and Methods: Data were collected from 250 individuals involved in domestic violence incidents and seeking medical assistance. Information on treatment modalities, LoS, and terminal outcomes was collected through structured interviews, medical records, and consultations with healthcare professionals. Descriptive statistics, including frequency distributions and percentages, were employed to analyze the data. Results: The majority of individuals opted for hospitalization in public sector healthcare facilities, with a significant proportion experiencing prolonged LoS exceeding two weeks. Despite survival prospects, a notable proportion of victims succumbed to their injuries, highlighting the severity and impact of domestic burns on mortality rates. Conclusion: The findings underscore the multifaceted nature of domestic burns and emphasize the need for comprehensive interventions addressing treatment accessibility, healthcare delivery, and psychosocial support to mitigate the adverse effects of domestic violence on individuals and communities.