Mapping the Risks: A GIS-Based Study of Factors Associated with Paediatric Burn Admissions in a Kenyan Referral Hospital

Aim: To assess factors contributing to burns among children admitted to a national referral hospital in Kenya, with a focus on Geographical Information System (GIS) tools to map and analyze spatial factors related to burn injuries. Methods: This cross-sectional survey collected data using questionnaires from children with burns, their parents/guardians, and conducted key informant interviews and focused group discussions with doctors and nurses. The calculation of the sample used Fisher’s formula, involving 235 children (18 years and below) and their parents/guardians, as well as seven key informants. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). Qualitative data were grouped thematically, coded and analyzed, and some were quoted directly. Global information system coordinates were used to map hospitals, road networks and residences of respondents. Results: Occurrence of burns was influenced by gender (54% males) and age (below two years were 31.5%). Scalds were the most common type of burn (51.1%), including hot water (42.3%), hot food (6.4%), and hot oil (2.4%). Burns occurred most frequently indoors, particularly in overcrowded homes lacking separate cooking areas and inadequate playgrounds, and 74.3% were preventable. Although 55.3% children received first aid, most were unscientific and harmful. Delayed first-aid and initiation of burn treatment arose in 83% due to lack of money, traffic jams, ignorance, transport used (including wheelbarrows), preferred treatment facilities, unavailability of burn centres nearby and waiting for referral letters (delayed referral). Most children were from environs near the study site (73.2%), others from nearby counties, while others were from far losing the golden hour. Conclusions: This study identified key sociodemographic and environmental contributors to pediatric burns and highlighted significant spatial barriers to timely care. The Global Information System was successfully used to visualize patterns of injury occurrence and healthcare access. Recommendations: There should be continuous training on burn prevention and first-aid, establishment of burn centers in all counties, and integration of GIS into health planning to establish trends and improve access to timely burn care.