265 Impact of Firefighter Participation in Burn Survivor Community Reintegration: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

Community reintegration programs are vital in rehabilitation of burn survivors. Social interaction in the community can be a challenge for survivors as there is limited professional support after discharge. Early research validates a program’s ability to build resolve and foster coping skills in real life settings. Our program sees firefighters volunteer in community recreational outings with pediatric burn survivors. Very few outcomes exist identifying firefighter response to involvement in such programs; we created a quality improvement survey to gain firefighter perspective on the impact. Following volunteer participation, firefighters completed a short, comprehensive questionnaire (13 yes/no, 7 open answer questions) designed to gauge overall experience of the program. Questions included assessing comfort level of engagement, impact on their job, and effect on their view of their role in burn survivor recovery and reintegration. Final questions addressed recommending participation to others and gave an opportunity to add comments. Surveys anonymously distributed via an electronic system with data blinded and compiled by a research assistant. Thirty surveys were completed, majority of volunteers having participated in outings either 1–3 times or more than 7 times. Firefighters reported overall positive experiences, involvement improved comfort level with strangers and enhanced communication skills, with 80% reporting positive impact on their view of themselves as first responders and role in recovery of burn survivors. Comments reflected feelings of pride, admiration, and greater perspective for what patients and families endure. Additionally, requests for input on quality improvement were constructive. Responses wholly expressed success in realizing the mission; 100% of respondents stated they are very likely to recommend the program to others. Development of a reintegration program is important in enriching the rehabilitation of survivors and first responders in the burn community. Pilot data reveals the positive impact volunteering with a reintegration program can have on firefighters. Involvement is obviously rewarding, resulting in pride in their role within the community, and awareness of outcomes for burn survivors. Responses included several reports of increased empathy and resilience, validating the mission of the program for firefighters and patients. Our program embodies a successful model for achieving collaboration and fostering awareness within the community. Growth of our program is driven by feedback provided in the survey. Despite positive outcomes, in-depth analysis of effects of involvement in community reintegration in firefighters is needed.