The experience of scar management for adults with burn injuries: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Literature Review: Qualitative research was reviewed to better understand how people cope with burns. Eleven articles were identified for inclusion with a total of 107 participants. A thematic synthesis was undertaken which resulted in two superordinate themes. These provided an account of how patients managed the burn (e.g. by maintaining a positive perspective and utilising pragmatic strategies), and how they distanced themselves from distress and pain (e.g. by using distraction). The findings reinforced the benefits of social support, which facilitated the use of coping strategies. Reviewing support and interventions during the process of recovery from burns is important, as patients’ needs may change over time. More research is needed to understand the use and effectiveness of avoidant coping at different times, and to understand what people need at different stages of recovery. Research Report: The experiences of using scar management interventions for burns were explored using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Eight participants were recruited and data was collected using semi-structured interviews. Three superordinate themes were identified: ‘identity’, ‘functions of the pressure garment’ and ‘coping’. ‘Identity’ described the role of scar management in the developing identities of burn patients. ‘Functions of the pressure garment’ indicated the various personal and social functions of the garments. ‘Coping’ described the main strategies used to manage associated difficulties. Implications for healthcare professionals were discussed, which included appropriate assessment of trauma, providing information on managing social responses, and the facilitation of containment through their support. Recommendations for further research were to explore prior hospital experiences, and investigate the experiences of different demographic groups. Critical Appraisal: The process of conducting the research was reflected upon. This focused on developing good quality research in the face of dynamic challenges, formalising processes of reflexivity, and developing skills in utilising qualitative methodology.