Follow-up of burned patients in the United Kingdom

The nature of follow-up procedure practised by burn treatment units in the United Kingdom was investigated using a questionnaire sent to 30 units. Information from 23 units who replied indicated that all units consider that follow-up is essential and pressurized patients by a variety of means to attend. All units also recognized that medical, nursing and a variety of rehabilitation staff are required for follow-up care. There was a lesser involvement of social workers and a minimal involvement of psychiatric staff. All units obviously utilize a variety of clinics to follow patients after discharge from the burns unit. There appears to be no standard form of follow-up, units having made pragmatic arrangements to cover problems identified in clinical practice.