Validation of the comprehensive ICF Core Set for burn injury rehabilitation from the perspective of occupational therapists and patients

PURPOSE: This study aimed to validate the ICF-CS for burn injury rehabilitation from the perspective of occupational therapists (OTs) and patients. METHODS: A two-round Delphi study was held with experienced OTs specializing in burn rehabilitation who were also familiar with the ICF framework. These experts contributed through a hybrid panel. Codes were retained if they achieved a consensus threshold of ≥75%. Patient perspectives were collected through semi-structured individual interviews, and their suggestions were subsequently linked to ICF codes. RESULTS: Fourteen OTs and nineteen patients participated in this study. Of the 68 original codes, more than 80% reached consensus endorsement. Based on experts' input, 17 new codes were incorporated into the ICF-CS: one in the body functions, ten in the activities and participation (AP), and six in the environmental factors. Additionally, eight new codes were derived from patient input-four related to AP and four linked to environmental factors-which overlapped with experts' suggestions. CONCLUSION: The ICF-CS for burn injury rehabilitation received strong endorsement from OTs and patients. The greater emphasis on the AP domain reflects the central role of occupational therapy in healthcare. Furthermore, environmental factors-shaped by national policies and sociocultural contexts-require greater attention in localized adaptations.