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Physical Therapists in Burn Care: Role and Staffing Patterns

At the time this study was conducted, Ms. Stachowski was Clinical Specialist in the Burn Unit, University Hospitals, University of Michigan. She is now Clinical Specialist in Spinal Cord Injury, Physical Therapy Division, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Box 55, University Hospitals, University of Michigan, 1405 East Ann St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (USA).
Dr. Kondela-Cebulski is Assistant Director and Center Coordinator of Clinical Education, Physical Therapy Division, University Hospitals, Ann Arbor, MI 48109.

The purpose of this study was to identify the role and the staffing patterns of physical therapists in 42 major burn care facilities in the United States. A questionnaire designed by the investigators was used to collect the data. Completed questionnaires were returned from 34 (81%) of the burn care facilities, almost all (91%) of which employed physical therapists. Physical therapy was provided six or seven days a week in 74 percent of the facilities and five days a week in 26 percent of the facilities. The work roles of physical therapists and occupational therapists were compared, and significant differences are reported. The primary treatment provided by the physical therapists was exercise (90%), and the primary treatment by occupational therapists was splinting (96%). The most frequently used methods of contracture control and methods of physical therapy follow-up care are reported, as well as the respondents' perceptions about adequacy of physical therapy coverage and turnover of therapists in burn care.

Key Words: Burn units • Personnel staffing • Physical therapy

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