Critical Care Rehabilitation of the Burn Patient

Despite the fact that modern burn care has significantly reduced the mortality associated with severe burn injuries, the rehabilitation and community reintegration of survivors continues to be a challenge. An interprofessional team approach is essential for optimal outcomes. This includes early occupational and physical therapy, beginning in the intensive care unit (ICU). Burn-specific techniques (edema management, wound healing, and contracture prevention) are successfully integrated into the burn ICU. Research demonstrates that early intensive rehabilitation of critically ill burn patients is safe and effective. Further work on the physiologic, functional, and long-term impact of this care is needed.