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Measuring functional outcome in paediatric patients with burns: methodological considerations
Insights
Research on pediatric burn outcomes often uses limited methods and definitions of functioning. This review proposes explanatory case studies, grounded in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), to improve understanding of child recovery after burns.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric burn research
- Rehabilitation science
- Functional outcomes
Background:
- Widespread methodological criticisms exist in pediatric burn research.
- Quasi-experimental designs and narrow definitions of functioning (e.g., school attendance) have dominated studies on post-burn functional outcomes.
- Limited efforts have been made to develop or test theoretical models of functional outcomes in pediatric burn survivors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current research literature on functional outcomes in pediatric burn survivors.
- To propose explanatory case study methodology as an alternative research design.
- To advance the study of functional outcomes using a model based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on pediatric burn functional outcomes.
- Application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as a conceptual framework.
- Proposal and justification of explanatory case study methodology.
Main Results:
- Identified limitations in current research designs and outcome measures in pediatric burn rehabilitation.
- Highlighted the need for a more comprehensive theoretical model for functional outcomes.
- Presented explanatory case studies as a viable alternative for in-depth investigation.
Conclusions:
- Existing research on pediatric burn functional outcomes is methodologically limited.
- Explanatory case study methodology, guided by the ICF, offers a promising approach to better understand functional recovery in children post-burn.
- Further research employing robust methodologies is crucial for improving long-term outcomes for pediatric burn survivors.
Abstract:
Methodological criticisms of research undertaken in the area of paediatric burns are widespread. To date, quasi-experimental research designs have most frequently been used to examine the impact of impairments such as scarring and reduced range of motion on functional outcomes. Predominantly, these studies have utilised a narrow definition of functioning (e.g. school attendance) to determine a child's level of participation in activities post-burn injury. Until recently, there had been little attempt to develop and/or test a theoretical model of functional outcome with these children. Using a conceptual model of functional outcome based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, this review paper outlines the current state of the research literature and presents explanatory case study methodology as an alternative research design to further advance the study of functional outcome post-burn injury.
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