The role of resilience in the recovery of the burn-injured patient: an integrative review

Abstract

Severe burn injuries are catastrophic life events resulting in significant physical and psychological effects. With long periods of hospitalization and rehabilitation, burn survivors encounter many issues, including an altered body image and loss of function and independence that subsequently influence quality of life and the family unit. Consequently, resilience has been identified as a fundamental concept that facilitates the adaptability required to navigate the lengthy and complex recovery process. However, over time, the notion of resilience has shifted from a static, innate trait to a fluid and multidimensional concept. Here, we review the evidence surrounding the role of resilience in the recovery of burn injury. This integrative review was based on a systematic search of five electronic databases. Of the 89 articles identified, ten primary research papers met the inclusion criteria. Three key themes were identified encompassing relational strengths, positive coping, and the resistance to trauma symptoms that are fundamental constructs associated with developing and sustaining resilience that resonate with the broader literature on burn recovery. However, limited evidence is currently available within the burns context. While resilience appears to be a vital component influencing the recovery from burns trauma, it still remains a broad construct within the burns framework. Regular assessment of resilience in burn-injured patients is recommended in clinical practice in addition to longitudinal and intervention studies to best inform patient care.

<p>A Study of the Relationship Among Burned Patients’ Resilience and Self-Efficacy and Their Quality of Life</p>

“…45 Also, burned patients who receive less social support are more likely to be affected by some undesirable health issues like anxiety. 46 On the other hand, resilient individuals are more able to find a positive meaning in life in the face of stressful situations and the ensuing problems. Accordingly, when faced with hardships in life, resilient individuals indicate more adaptability, wisdom, and imagination.…”

A Correlational Study of Acute Stress and Resilience Among Hospitalized Burn Victims Following the Taiwan Formosa Fun Coast Explosion

“…Huang, Chen, Cheng, and Sung (2014) conducted a study on patients with chronic mental illness, and their results showed that resilience was negatively correlated to stress. An integrative review identified three key themes, including encompassing relational strengths, positive coping, and resistance to trauma symptoms, that were fundamental constructs associated with developing and sustaining resilience (Kornhaber, Bridgman, McLean, & Vandervord, 2016). Patients with a higher resilience level usually have a more positive attitude and actively adopt response strategies to solve immediate frustrations.…”

Post-traumatic stress disorder and resilience among adult burn patients in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study

“…Kornhaber et al [ 7 ] reviewed resilience in the context of burn injury and rehabilitation, and they found that three main themes are related with the impact of resilience: interpersonal strengths, optimistic coping, and confrontation to trauma symptoms. These themes propose that resilience significantly contribute in the rehabilitation of burn patients throughout their life.…”

“…It usually occurs 3 to 6 months after a burn injury or even later and continues for years, and has long-lasting effects on the well-being and quality of patients’ lives [ 6 ]. Destructive nature of burn injuries requires a long-term rehabilitation and patience [ 7 ].…”