Psychological and social problems in burn patients After discharge

Abstract

Approximately 18 months after discharge we were able to screen 42 burned adult patients for psychological and social problems. Using independent semi-standardized interviews, validated psychological questionnaires and standardized self-reports of the patients, we obtained three separate evaluations. The interreliability between the three different ‘judges’ varied from poor to moderate. Research suggests that 40% of burned adult patients have psychological problems. The cycle of recovery is dynamic. Only 21 % need psychological help 18 months after discharge, but half of these are in danger of becoming ‘drop-outs’ because they do not receive the necessary treatment. A follow-up consisting of psychological questionnaires six months post-discharge appears to be a good and efficient instrument in limiting the drop-out risk.

Key Words:

• burns/psychology
• Rehabilitation
• psychosocial problems
• social adjustment