Barriers to return to work after burn injuries.
OBJECTIVE
To identify barriers to return to work after burn injury as identified by the patient.


METHODS
A cohort study with telephone interview up to 1 year.


METHODS
Hospital-based burn centers at 3 national sites.


METHODS
Hospitalized patients (N=154) meeting the American Burn Association criteria for major burn injury, employed at least 20 hours a week at the time of injury, and with access to a telephone after discharge.


METHODS
Patients were contacted via telephone every 2 weeks up to 4 months, then monthly up to 1 year after discharge.


METHODS
A return to work survey was used to identify barriers that prevented patients from returning to work. A graphic rating scale determined the impact of each barrier.


RESULTS
By 1 year, 79.7% of patients returned to work. Physical and wound issues were barriers early after discharge. Although physical abilities continued to be a significant barrier up to 1 year, working conditions (temperature, humidity, safety) and psychosocial factors (nightmares, flashbacks, appearance concerns) became important issues in those with long-term disability.


CONCLUSIONS
The majority of patients return to work after a burn injury. Although physical and work conditions are important barriers, psychosocial issues need to be evaluated and treated to optimize return to work.
Esselman
Peter C
PC
Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. esselman@u.washington.edu
Askay
Shelley Wiechman
SW
Carrougher
Gretchen J
GJ
Lezotte
Dennis C
DC
Holavanahalli
Radha K
RK
Magyar-Russell
Gina
G
Fauerbach
James A
JA
Engrav
Loren H
LH
D002053:Burn Units; D002056:Burns / Q000145:classification / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D004651:Employment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D015601:Injury Severity Score; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D016015:Logistic Models; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D013997:Time Factors