Determinants and Interventions Influencing Quality of Life Following Trauma in Adults: A Systematic Review

Background Trauma is commonly defined as a sudden injury to human tissues or organs resulting from violence or accidents, with potential outcomes including death or long‐term disability. Among adults, traumatic injuries represent a major public health concern, frequently leading to persistent physical, psychological, and social impairments that substantially affect the quality of life (QoL) and impose a significant socioeconomic burden. Objective To identify and synthesize the determinants and interventions associated with QoL in adults with trauma. Methods This review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. The literature search was carried out across multiple electronic databases, including CINAHL Plus with Full Text, MEDLINE Ultimate, MedicLatina, Scopus, and Web of Science. The search strategy employed combinations of keywords derived from the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) thesaurus. Results Of the 25 included studies, most demonstrated that structured and multidimensional interventions had a significant positive impact on the QoL of individuals with trauma. The most effective interventions included psychological approaches (such as psychotherapeutic support and self‐efficacy‐focused interventions), rehabilitative interventions (physical rehabilitation programs, functional training, and therapeutic exercise), educational strategies directed at patients and caregivers, and coordinated and integrated care models, including transitional care and postdischarge follow‐up. The main determinants associated with QoL were the level of social support, the presence of chronic pain and depressive symptoms, physical functioning, independence in activities of daily living, and recovery time, which differentially influenced the physical, psychological, and social domains of QoL. Conclusion The findings highlight that post‐trauma QoL is a multidimensional construct shaped by a range of personal and contextual factors. Person‐centered interventions tailored to individual needs showed a positive impact and are essential for effective rehabilitation and adaptation following trauma. The study underscores the need for greater investment in longitudinal research and the practical implementation of integrated care strategies focused on holistic well‐being.