Efficacy of a Home Care Plan in the Mental Health of Burn Survivors: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background: Mental health is a serious concern for burn survivors. Burn injuries can bring long-term complications that begin at the moment of injury and last throughout a burn victim’s life. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of a home care plan in the mental health status of burn survivors six months after hospital discharge. Methods: This randomized clinical trial with intervention and control groups was conducted in Kermanshah, Iran. Eligible samples (n = 90) were allocated into the two groups by a randomized block design. The intervention group received a home care plan for six months. The General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was responded to by the samples at three time points, baseline (T1: hospital discharge) and 3 (T2), and six months (T3) after the intervention. Results: The mean scores of the GHQ-28 showed a descending trend in the intervention group during six months (T1: 32.48 ± 15.83, T2: 25.15 ± 15.11, and T3: 19.37 ± 14.11). However, the mean scores of the GHQ-28 were increased in the control group (T1: 32.29 ± 17.66, T2: 39.35 ± 14.59, and T3: 40.44 ± 15.59). There were significant differences between the two groups in 3- and 6-month measurements (P < 0.001). Conclusions: A 6-month home care plan improved the mental health of burn survivors in the intervention group in comparison to the controls; nevertheless, there were still survivors who needed help. Therefore, it is suggested to develop a home care plan with longer regular follow-ups for burn survivors based on their needs in the healthcare system of Iran.