An exploration of burn survivors' lived experiences and relevance of Trauma Informed Care principles in burn care: A meta-synthesis.

Abstract

Burn injuries are physically, psychologically and socially disruptive events that place survivors at risk of enduring psychological distress. Trauma Informed Care (TIC) offers a framework for recognising and responding to the pervasive traumatic impact of burn injuries, emphasising safety, trust, empowerment, choice, collaboration and cultural sensitivity to facilitate effective and efficient psychological recovery, engagement with healthcare services, and reintegration into society. This study synthesised qualitative research describing the lived experiences of burn survivors, exploring this through a TIC lens and psychological theory to deepen the understanding of survivor needs and the application of TIC principles in a burn care setting. The synthesis revealed five interconnected themes subdivided into two premises. 'Internal Experiences' comprising factors relating to patients' and survivors lived experiences of their injury and healthcare-self-blame, loss of self, loss of self-esteem, loss of power and altered body image and physical or psychological suffering describing pain, itch, tightness, fear, anxiety, anger and isolation. 'Harms and Hindrances' described the impact of internal and external factors on adjustment; service delivery and staff, survivor coping strategies and regaining control, and survivor experiences within their social systems and their connection to similar others. Survivors' accounts highlight the emotional saliency of healthcare systems in promoting psychological healing and adjustment. Effective application of the TIC framework supports psychological recovery and engagement with healthcare. This synthesis provides an evidence-based foundation for the conscious integration of the TIC framework in burn care.