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Description

In 2018, around 450,000 individuals in the United States (U.S.) suffered from severe burn injuries (ABA, 2018). The largest burn center in the U.S. is the Joseph M. Still Burn Center at Doctors Hospital, located in Augusta, Georgia. This location is where the capstone experience was completed. Individuals who suffer from severe burns are at risk for developing contractures. Scar contractures can impact an individual during ADL participation, limiting their independence and causing a disruption in daily routine, habits, and roles (Oosterwijk et al., 2017). Five main components of scar management focus on compression gear, sun protection, appropriate positioning/splinting to prevent contractures, moisturization, and a lot of exercise and stretching (Hall et al., 2016). It takes two years for a scar to fully mature and no longer requires scar management (Kaur et al., 2023). “One of the most important rehabilitation interventions that can reduce the negative effects and consequences of severe burns is exercise programs” (Miri et al., 2022) Purpose: This capstone project aims to advocate for the role of occupational therapy (OT) within the burn population and educate patients, caregivers, and interdisciplinary members on the importance of OT in burn management. This capstone explored the role and importance of OT within the burn population while advocating and educating on the importance of scar management to increase the quality of life (QoL) and activities of daily living (ADLs) participation.

Publication Date

Fall 2023

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Burns, Occupational therapy, Burn population, Burn management

Medical Subject Headings

Occupational therapist, Burn units, Caregivers, Contracture, Exercise therapy, Habits

Disciplines

Occupational Therapy | Other Education

Comments

Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, held online at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on December 6, 2023.

Advocating for the Role of Occupational Therapy in the Burn Population

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