Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
-
Successful burn care should facilitate comprehensive, functional recovery after an injury. But we have a poor understanding of which risk factors influence long-term outcomes after burn injury. Studies have correlated hospital-acquired complications (HACs) with poor long-term outcomes in some populations. The purpose of this study was to determine whether HACs alter patient-reported quality of life in adult burn survivors. ⋯ We demonstrate that inpatient complications negatively impact long-term quality of life, especially physical functioning for patients with burn injuries. Our data confirm the need to consider the influence of hospital-acquired complications on patient-reported long-term outcomes and to support national efforts to reduce complications in burn patients.
-
Current consensus for the ideal pressure range at the pressure garment to scar interface is 15-25mmHg. Interface pressure variability has been reported at new pressure garment fitting in children. Pressure reductions up to 25% have been recorded over one month in adults. ⋯ Interface pressure variability was recorded over time during children's wear of the first pressure garment after burn. Further investigation of factors contributing to pressure changes, subsequent impact on adherence and the effect of sub-optimal pressure application on burn scar outcomes is indicated.
-
Following a severe burn injury, significant hematologic changes occur that are reflected in complete blood count (CBC) measurements. Our aim for this study was to examine trend in the components of the CBC in severely burned patients over the first week after injury and compare differences in CBC components between survivors and non-survivors. ⋯ Burn-injury specific trends in CBC measurements can be used as references to determine expected clinical course of burn patients. Non-survivors have early hematologic differences compared to survivors.
-
Severe burns cause hypermetabolic responses and prolonged hospitalization, resulting in loss of body mass and muscle strength. This study aimed to determine whether long-term gains in lean body mass (LBM) after structured exercise programs are functionally meaningful and related to greater muscle strength in severely burned children. ⋯ In severely burned children participating in a rehabilitative exercise program, gains in LBM over time are related to increases in muscle strength, suggesting that gained muscle mass is functional. Measurement of muscle strength at an angular velocity of 120°/s best reflects gains in LBM and should be considered for reliable measure of strength in future studies.