Factors influencing return to employment after a burn injury

Return-to-work data were prospectively obtained from 155 adult burn patients who were employed before their injuries. Average time from burn to return to work was 63 days, and average time from discharge to return to work was 42 days. Size and depth of burn, occurrence of hand burns, age of the patient, and type of job significantly influenced return to work and return to work time. These data were compared to previous reports from this burn center and other burn centers, and it was concluded that return to work time is becoming shorter. More information must be scientifically gathered in order to determine all factors which influence return to work time. Researchers should direct their attention to those factors that are amenable to intervention from the burn team.