Children's Burn Injury Prevention Program in Use in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract

Purpose: Burn injury is one of the most common injuries among children and is associated with a high risk of mortality and morbidity. In low-resource settings, where preventive initiatives are limited, 90% of burn-related deaths occur. Consistent and reliable data are essential for effective and efficient burn injury prevention programs. We aimed to assess the current childhood burn injury prevention practices in use in Addis Ababa. The aim of the study was to assess the current children's burn injury prevention program in use in Addis Ababa. Methodology: A qualitative exploratory study was conducted in September 2023. The investigator conducted four qualitative interviews with key informants, including a federal representative (n = 1), a senior burn unit manager (n = 1), a parastatal organization representative (n = 1), and a community leader (n = 1) in Addis Ababa. Participants were selected using a purposive non-random sampling strategy. Findings: Four categories (prevention, responsible office for burns, capacity-building training, and communication) and ten subcategories emerged from the data, with community involvement, law enforcement, and motivation identified as major themes. Health workers advised caregivers to pay attention to their children and avoid leaving children unattended at home. Furthermore, the study showed that only the Addis Ababa Fire Brigade has a scheduled school- and community-based burn prevention education program in Addis Ababa. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Burn injuries can be prevented through appropriate preventive practices. Health workers at the burn unit contribute to prevention efforts through caregiver education aimed at reducing future burns and related complications. Communication activities, including mass media approaches, can support community awareness. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening existing burn prevention activities and community involvement in Addis Ababa.