Psycho/Social Support

Normalizing (but not minimizing) the patient's experience physically, psychologically and emotionally - is a key factor during the acute phase. For example, repetitive thoughts or dreams about their injury may lead the patient to believe that he/she is having a "breakdown" and he/she will be reassured to know that it is a common response to a traumatic injury. Because emotional problems can limit the ability of an individual to toletate pain, it is important that the non-physical realm of the burn injury be addressed. Reactions to death, loss of property, self image, roles, lifestyles and concerns about the future can generate anxiety as well as a range of other emotions. The patient and family need to constructively deal with their feelings and fears in order to move on and deal with the healing process. Because of the nature of burn care, patients commonly experience a feeling of dependence and lack of control. During the acute phase, it is critical to return any form of control to the patient so that he/she can regain a sense of independence in the world.

Fear of deformity, restricted functioning and general fear of the unknown is a central concern for both patient and family. Whatever the predicted medical outcome, these people need accurate and clear information to develop realistic expectations about the future.

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