Return-to-work outcomes of burn injuries and occupationally acquired burns

Abstract

Advances in burn treatment have significantly reduced mortality, resulting in a growing population of burn survivors living with potential functional and occupational impairments. Return to work has been used as a marker for meaningful recovery. This varies largely depending on the severity of the burn, often characterized by depth and total surface area, as well as individual socioeconomic and psychosocial backgrounds. The aim of this research paper is to collectively review literature on return to work outcomes following burn injuries to compare rates and identify key predictors on successful reintegration. This review also aims to differentiate outcomes based on burn etiology focusing on differences in return to work in non-occupationally and occupationally acquired burns.