122 The Efficacy of Community Reintegration Programming in the Physical and Psychosocial Recovery of Pediatric Burn Survivors

Abstract

Community Reintegration (CR) programming in burn rehabilitation is a crucial tool in development of resiliency and coping skills outside the hospital setting. Survivors face novel trials upon discharge, and goal-based CR programming allows patients to practice skills in a supportive environment. Few prospective studies exist to document this impact. Three surveys were utilized, with each subject completing a pre & post-outing State Trait Anxiety Inventory/State Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children (STAI) to capture short-term effects, a Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Short Form 15 Generic Core Scale (PedsQL) before the 1st and after the 3rd outing to address mid-range impact, and an adapted Burn Outcomes Questionnaire/Young Adult Burn Outcome Questionnaire (BOQ) at baseline and after 6–12 months to identify long-term results. Caregivers completed a parent version of PedsQL at the same intervals. Of the 23 enrolled subjects, 2 were removed from the study due to incomplete data, leaving 8 subjects ages 6–8 years, 10 ages 8–12 years, and 3 ages 13–18 years. Twenty-one subjects completed the 1st STAI survey, 15 submitted the 2nd, and 9 completed the 3rd. All subjects and parents completed the 1st PedsQL, 9 parents and 8 subjects completed the 2nd. Only 3 BOQs have been returned to date. Results from the STAI surveys are detailed below in table 1.1. Overall score comparisons from the PedsQL showed increased quality of life (QOL) in 62.5% and decreased QOL in 37.5%. Data collected to date from the adapted BOQ continues to be analyzed pending receipt of surveys from the remaining participants. Though small, the study provides meaningful evidence that CR programming, designed and implemented by skilled professionals, improves the pediatric patient’s anxiety levels and self-reported QOL. While the first interaction exhibited the most significant change in anxiety, positive results persisted after the third encounter. Burn care professionals are constantly searching for ways to support patients as they heal. With continued focus on the psychosocial aspects of recovery, we must remain innovative in how we aid the patient through community re-entry. Goal-oriented CR programs such as this are essential to promote full recovery. 1 - Pre/Post Outing Anxiety Comparison from STAI Surveys 1 - Pre/Post Outing Anxiety Comparison from STAI Surveys