Table 1:Prototype triage tool for diagnosis of intentional scalds: Reprinted from Maguire, S., et al., A systematic review of the features that indicate intentional scalds in children. Burns, 2008. 34(8): p. 1072-81, with permission from Elsevier.

Intentional scald must be excluded	Intentional scald should be considered	Intentional scald unlikely
Mechanism – Immersion	Pattern– uniform scald depth; skin fold sparing; central sparing buttocks (doughnut)	Mechanism – spill injury; flowing water injury
Agent – Hot tap water	Distribution – glove and stocking; 1 limb glove/stocking	Agent – non-tap water (beverage)
Pattern – clear upper limits; scald symmetry (extremi-ties)	Clinical Features – previous burn injury; neglect/faltering growth; history inconsistent with assessed development	Pattern – irregular margin and depth; lack stocking distribution
Distribution – isolated buttock/perineum, +/- lower extremities; isolated lower extremities	Historical/Social features – trigger, such as soiling/enuresis/misbehavior; differing historical accounts; lack of parental concern; unrelated adult presenting child; child known to social services	Distribution – asymmetric involvement lower limbs; head, neck and trunk or face and upper body
Clinical Features – Associated unrelated injury; history incompatible with examination findings
Historical/Social features – Passive, introverted, fearful child; previous abuse; domestic violence; numerous prior accidental injuries; sibling blamed for injury