Healthcare workers' perceptions of burn care in New South Wales (NSW): guiding a burn model of care.

Abstract

Burn-injured patients are managed by staff with differing levels of experience. Although considerable evidence is available regarding the assessment and treatment of burn injuries, there remains a lack of research on burn care systems. This study aimed to gather insights and recommendations from healthcare workers involved in caring for burn-injured patients, to inform the development of a burn model of care. Twenty-two healthcare workers involved in burn care in New South Wales were interviewed in this qualitative study between January and June 2023. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via videoconferencing, focusing on perceptions of burn care and recommendations for improvement. Data were analysed thematically, categorised into main themes and sub-themes. Main themes included: caring for burn patients: challenges across the continuum; improving access to quality, comprehensive and culturally appropriate care; and strengthening consumer engagement in care, prevention and education. Sub-themes included: providing coordinated, multidisciplinary and holistic care throughout the journey; improving the post-discharge experience, process, rehabilitation, and transition; keeping patients closer to home; and enhancing staff skills through education. Healthcare workers recognise the challenges of equitable access for diverse, rural, and remote populations. Furthermore, the significance of effective education, communication, collaboration and consumer engagement in care, prevention, and education was emphasised. Issues such as the accessibility of education and virtual care resources were also discussed. Gaining insights from healthcare workers can enhance understanding of where gaps exist in the burn care system, enabling their resolution through the implementation of well-designed models of care.