Child Physical Abuse
Scalding: These are the most prevalent of all the burns and are considered to be “wet” burns because they are caused by hot liquids. Scalding is the most frequent cause of death due to burning. There are two types of scald burns:
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Immersion which are caused by the victim being placed into a hot liquid, usually water. This is commonly perpetrated by caregivers with very rigid toilet training beliefs and is a punishment due to the child soiling or wetting her pants. Immersion of the feet produces “stocking” burns while hand immersion burns are referred to as “glove” burns.
Splash which are caused by hot liquids being thrown or poured onto the child. The depth of splash burns is usually less than that of immersion burns. Intentional splash burns are usually found on the back, sides of the face, and the posterior shoulder (whereas accidental burns will be found on the front, lower part of the face, chest, or trunk).
