564 Adults with Head and Neck Burns Have Worse Long-Term Psychosocial Outcomes

Abstract Introduction People living with burns of the head and neck (H 0.001) and longer hospital stays (32.6 ±38.3 vs. 16.9 ±16.5 days, p 0.001). At 12 months, participants with H 0.001). Participants with H 0.001), 12 months (2.5 ±1.3 vs. 3.2 ±1.1, p 0.001), and 24 months (2.7 ±1.3 vs. 3.1 ±1.2, p 0.001). Conclusions Participants with H&N burns reported significantly worse outcomes in several psychosocial domains, including anxiety, depression, life satisfaction, and body image. These findings and evidence from early psychological intervention suggest that the presence of H&N burns is a potentially useful screening tool to identify an adult population who might benefit from early evaluation and treatment for psychological stress, coping and adjustment (e.g., cognitive processing therapy). Applicability of Research to Practice In addition to future studies, this study may be used when considering recommendations for psychotherapy or counseling services available to people living with H&N burns.