The impact of early information concerning the need for surgery on anxiety levels in patients with burns

Abstract Aims Stress has been linked to poor coping with health-related issues, poor adaptation, a decrease of quality of life, poor recovery and poor wound healing. Therefore, it is important to manage patients’ uncertainty and feelings of anxiety. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of providing early treatment information based on an LDI-scan to patients with burns on their feelings of anxiety. Design An observational prospective pre-test post-test study. Methods Patients with intermediate burns (n = 59) admitted to our burn centre in 2016 were evaluated for anxiety using a visual analogue scale (VAS-A) before and after an LDI-scan was made. Two groups were compared: a group that heard whether they would or would not need surgery for wound closure (certain group) versus a group that heard to wait and see whether surgery is necessary (uncertain group). Results Before the LDI-scan was made, both groups showed clinically high levels of anxiety (median VAS scores above 5). After the information gathered with the LDI was discussed with the patient, their anxiety dropped significantly (median VAS below 3; p = .001). No significant differences between the groups were observed (p > .05). Conclusion In contrast to other studies, anxiety was significantly reduced in all our study groups after information was shared. Early communication of knowledge by health care professionals is important regardless whether it includes treatment uncertainty.