Why are antibiotics generally not used prophylactically in burn care?

Antibiotics are generally not used prophylactically in burn care primarily to prevent antibiotic resistance and adverse effects. The use of antibiotics without clear indications can lead to the development of resistant strains of bacteria, which poses a significant risk in a healthcare setting where infections are already a major concern. Moreover, unnecessary use of antibiotics can expose patients to potential side effects, such as allergic reactions or gastrointestinal disturbances, without providing any real benefit since antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections and not against the risk of infection from the burn itself.

In burn care, the focus is often on careful monitoring and strict aseptic techniques to manage and prevent infections rather than preemptively administering antibiotics. This approach not only preserves the effectiveness of antibiotics for cases where they are truly needed but also promotes better overall patient outcomes by reducing the risk of adverse effects associated with antibiotic therapy.