Factors influencing survival and quality of life in burns

Abstract

Among factors influencing the improved survival of burn patients belongs appropriate organization of burn care with the concentration of seriously burned patients at specialized centers, disseminating guidelines for assessing initial care, triage and transfer and providing multidisciplinary treatment using newly developed technology. Any unprofessional and unpropitious procedure in resuscitation (ventilation circulation) or intensive care (surgery, nutrition, infection) may deteriorate the shortterm outcome. Efficacy of "accompaniment" has been proved in the acute period as well as during the rehabilitation and reconstruction period, when the scar-formation is decisive for the quality of life. Development and maturation of scars is influenced by individual differences, racial differences and psychic condition. There has to be taken into account the physiological status of each single patient. Among factors influencing long-term outcome and quality of life belong age and underlying diseases as well as family and society-cultural background. Patients might well adjust to lower levels of health by sustaining their satisfaction with life. Those who have recovered from critical injury may experience even an increase in life satisfaction, though quality of life may appear diminished.