A survey of burn professionals regarding the mental health services available to burn survivors in the United States and United Kingdom

Bringing research to the bedside: Knowledge translation in the mental health care of burns patients

“…One study examined the evidence‐based interventions preferred by mental health professionals (Lawrence et al . ). The findings indicated that although some interventions commonly used had a strong evidence base, others that had an evidence base for specific disorders, such as virtual reality for procedural pain, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD, were rarely utilized at all.…”

“…Studies have found that clinicians had low levels of confidence in several aspects of psychosocial care of burns patients, particularly in managing intimate relationships, and support in regards to body language skills (Lawrence et al . ). Confidence comes from having the fullest complement of evidence‐based standards that are accessible and are proven by experience to be effective and support to acquire and grow skills in trauma‐informed psychosocial care.…”

“…Lawrence et al . () noted the possible reasons for a lack of evidence‐based practice by mental health professionals included inadequate training, negative views on the role of psychotherapy, a lack of burns specific evidence, inexperience in using relevant techniques, and financial disincentives brought about by hospital funding arrangements.…”

“…As an example, Lawrence et al . () noted limited research on the sexuality of burn survivors, despite the known changes in body image after a burn that affect a burn survivor's sex life. In addition to further research, that better training for mental health professionals in regards to supporting patients on sexuality issues should be developed (Lawrence et al .…”

“…; Lawrence et al . ). Research suggests that up to 25% of people who sustain a burn injury are likely to develop a mental health condition (Mahendraraj et al .…”