Factors affecting self-perceived participation and autonomy among patients with burns: A follow-up study

This study aimed to evaluate self-perceived participation and autonomy in patients with burns in Fujian, China, and to identify key factors influencing these parameters.

We investigated 212 patients admitted to the burns unit 1 and 3months after discharge using the Impact on Participation and Autonomy (IPA), Acceptance of Disability Scale-Revised, Herth Hope Index, Modified Barthel Index Rating Scale, Visual Analogue Scale, and a self-designed demographic data and disease condition questionnaires. Influencing factors were identified using multivariable linear regression.

The general IPA questionnaire scores were 2.13±0.74 and 2.03±0.72 at 1 and 3months post-discharge, respectively. Acceptance of disability, hope, and social participation were significantly correlated (P<0.01). Financial situation, pain level, activities of daily living, acceptance of disability, and hope were major factors affecting self-perceived participation and autonomy 3months post-discharge, accounting for a variance of 77.5%.

Medium-to-low levels of self-perceived participation and autonomy were observed 1 and 3months post-discharge. Clinicians should adopt specific measures to help patients (including those from poor economic backgrounds) successfully reintegrate into their families/societies. These include alleviating their pain, encouraging participation in daily activities while accepting their disabilities, and offering hope.