Burn injury, as well as the recovery after it, could be a severe obstacle to an individual’s professional activity and quality personal life depending on the degree of a lesion. The case of Ben Swanson, who was burnt as a result of an explosion in the domestic area, shows the array of challenges a patient has to overcome to recover from the injury and return to work (Model Systems Knowledge Transition Center, n.d.). For a patient with burn wounds, it is crucial to return to the place of employment soon to enhance physical and psychological recovery after an accident.
My first reaction to the case observed in the video could be characterized as astonishment, compassion, and admiration. It was astonishing that 47% of Ben’s body, including hands, face, and legs, was burnt, causing severe pain and a long-term stay at the hospital. However, he recovered, returned to his job, and was able to maintain a healthy family life both physically and emotionally. Doctors’ competent care and the optimism of the patient contributed to the positive outcome.
In general, there are several considerations regarding employment after burn injury. Firstly, according to doctors, depending on the severity of an injury, a patient’s stay at the hospital could last long (1 day at a hospital for 1% of burnt skin) and delay the time of returning to the workplace (Model Systems Knowledge Transition Center, n.d.). Secondly, it is vital to go back to work as soon as possible or engage in a part-time job to enhance psychological recovery while being professionally active. Thirdly, a patient needs to adjust emotionally to his or her perception by others in case their burns caused some visible injuries.
Concluding the discussion, burn injury and its outcomes are not regarded as an illness and do not imply a patient’s inability to work. It is essential to provide gradual involvement in the working process at the place of employment to ensure adjustment to new health conditions. A person who has experienced burn injury needs professional assistance to recover not only physically but, more importantly, psychologically.
Reference
Model Systems Knowledge Transition Center. (n.d.). Employment after burn injury [Video file]. Web.