Psychological and social problems in burn patients after discharge. A follow-up study.
Approximately 18 months after discharge we were able to screen 42 burned adult patients for psychological and social problems. Using independent semi-standardized interviews, validated psychological questionnaires and standardized self-reports of the patients, we obtained three separate evaluations. The interreliability between the three different 'judges' varied from poor to moderate. Research suggests that 40% of burned adult patients have psychological problems. The cycle of recovery is dynamic. Only 21% need psychological help 18 months after discharge, but half of these are in danger of becoming 'drop-outs' because they do not receive the necessary treatment. A follow-up consisting of psychological questionnaires six months post-discharge appears to be a good and efficient instrument in limiting the drop-out risk.
Burn Centre, Roman Catholic Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands.
A W
AW
Faber
H J
HJ
Klasen
E W
EW
Sauër
F M
FM
Vuister
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D002056:Burns / Q000523:psychology*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D012917:Social Adjustment; D013997:Time Factors