Difficulties experienced by multiprofessional health teams in providing primary care for burn victims

Abstract

Objective: to identify difficulties experienced in Basic Health Units by multiprofessional teams providing care for burn patients. Method: in this qualitative, descriptive study with 14 health personnel working in three basic health units in southern Rio Grande do Sul state, data were collected in June 2018 by semi-structured interview, and treated by thematic analysis. Results: the multiprofessionals reported that they considered their training insufficient and that they felt unprepared to provide first care and management when more specific burns presented, which was reflected in stress and anxiety. There were reports of divergences in procedures adopted and no protocol for appropriate burn management was in place. They pointed out that the physical structure and materials were unsuitable. Conclusion: the difficulties experienced in providing care to burn victims pose a need for training, and closer attention by management with a view to investing in physical resources, materials and protocols to enable this service.