Quality of life of burn survivors treated in the military burn center

Nurs Outlook. 2017 Sep-Oct;65(5S):S81-S89. doi: 10.1016/j.outlook.2017.07.005. Epub 2017 Jul 15.

Abstract

Background: Limited research explains the quality of life (QOL) among burn survivors during post-hospitalization rehabilitation.

Purpose: To determine the QOL of military and civilian burn survivors treated in the military burn center.

Methods: In this longitudinal study, QOL was examined in 131 burn survivors (88 civilians; 43 military). Participants completed the Abbreviated Burn Specific Health Scale (BSHS-A) and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) over 5 time points post-discharge.

Discussion: Civilian and military participants reported improved QOL over time on most BSHS-A subscales. Military participants had higher global BSHS-A scores at discharge, but at 6 months plateaued while civilians improved and had higher global BSHS-A scores at 18 months. Scores on the SWLS were consistently higher for military participants than for civilians.

Conclusion: Military versus civilian patients may have different expectations about their ability to rehabilitate. The post-hospitalization period needs to be better understood to develop appropriate QOL interventions.

Keywords: Burn injury; Civilian; Longitudinal outcomes; Military; Quality of life.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Burn Units*
  • Burns / psychology*
  • Burns / therapy*
  • Female
  • Hospitalization
  • Humans
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Military Personnel*
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Prospective Studies
  • Quality of Life*
  • Survivors / psychology*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult