Addressing sexual function in adult burns victims: A multidisciplinary survey of current practice in UK burn units.

Abstract Background Burn injury has been shown to affect a patient’s sexuality. Cultural and social inhibitions may mean this topic is often overlooked. Aims To assess current opinion and management strategies amongst UK burns care teams in relation to addressing sexual function after burn injuries. Method An online questionnaire was circulated to all members of the British Burn Association. Results The majority of UK burn care professionals reported that sexual function after burn injury was an important (79% of respondents) and unaddressed problem (85% of respondents) in current clinical practice. However, over 90% of professionals reported that they ‘never’ or ‘only occasionally’ ask patients about their sexual function concerns. There are currently multiple different management strategies employed by UK burns centers, with a number of respondents indicating there was no designated individual responsible for leading care in this area. Conclusions There is currently no standardized method of addressing the sexual function concerns of adult burns victims. The authors suggest this topic may be included in future information leaflets for patients and in burns awareness courses for medical professionals.