Enhancing burn management outcomes through family support: A literature review of current evidence and best practices

Abstract

Burns are identified as damage to the skin and organs, commonly resulting from contact with fire, electrical currents, radiation, heated liquids or surfaces, or chemical agents. It is considered as a challenging medical condition both physically and psychologically with significant morbidity and fatality rates. Optimal wound healing required not only extensive medical care such as fluid resuscitation, wound care, infection prevention, pain control, surgical interventions, but also strong emotional and social support from family member. This article presented and discussed the burden, the role of family, the challenges and strategy in improving the healing process and enhancing treatment outcomes through family engagement. Family involvement could minimize complication rates, enhance therapy adherence, and speed up patient rehabilitation. This review provide an overview of the value of family support in burn therapy while also adding fresh insights to the existing research on the role of family in improving burn patient outcomes.