Addressing sexual function in adult burns victims: A multidisciplinary survey of current practice in UK burn units

Burn injury was shown to affect a patient's sexuality. Cultural and social inhibitions may mean this topic is often overlooked.

To assess current opinion and management strategies amongst UK burns care teams in relation to addressing sexual function after burn injuries.

An online questionnaire was circulated to all members of the British Burn Association.

The majority of UK burn care professionals reported that sexual function after burn injury was an important (79% of respondents) and unaddressed problem (85% of respondents) in current clinical practice. However, over 90% of professionals reported that they 'never' or 'only occasionally' ask patients about their sexual function concerns. Multiple different management strategies are employed by UK burns centers, with a number of respondents indicating no designated individual responsible for leading care in this area.

Currently no standardized method is in common use to address sexual function concerns of adult burns victims. The authors suggest this topic may be included in future information leaflets for patients and in burns awareness courses for medical professionals.