Understanding Burn Injuries: From Epidemiology to Rehabilitation and Psychometric Evaluation

Abstract

Burn injuries have long been recognized as one of the most severe traumas, posing significant challenges to both physical and psychological well-being. This comprehensive review explores various aspects of burn injury, including epidemiology, mechanisms of injury, advancements in contemporary treatment, rehabilitation, health status assessment methods, the impact of preexisting psychiatric conditions, personality assessment, and coping strategies. Globally, burn injuries rank among the leading causes of trauma-related deaths, with factors such as burn depth, extent of injury, age, and associated conditions influencing outcomes. Advancements in treatment, including surgical techniques and skin substitutes, have significantly improved survival rates. Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in maximizing patients' ability to adapt to life after burn injury, addressing both physical and psychological aspects. Health status assessment methods encompass a range of measures, from general health indices to disease-specific scales. Preexisting psychiatric conditions, personality traits, and coping strategies also play significant roles in post-burn adaptation and recovery. Developing burn-specific coping scales could enhance our understanding of the unique stressors faced by burn patients and improve patient outcomes. This review highlights the interdisciplinary nature of burn care and the importance of addressing physical, psychological, and social aspects in the treatment and rehabilitation of burn survivors.