OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL FOLLOWING A PALM BURN INJURY

Abstract

Purpose is to describe, justify, and systematize the basic aspects of occupational therapy for servicemen following hand burns. Materials and Methods. Theoretical methods of scientific research were applied, including analysis, synthesis, abstraction, concretization, induction, deduction, logical methods, systematic methods. Systematic methods allowed for: identifying and analyzing all factors affecting the course of rehabilitation after hand burns, as well as the effectiveness of occupational therapy; understanding the interconnections between structural, functional, and psychoemotional aspects of the injury and the recovery process; developing an examination scheme for servicemen after hand burns; creating an algorithm of actions for the occupational therapist to effectively implement occupational therapy interventions; and developing an occupational therapy program for servicemen following hand burns. Systems methods of theoretical research enabled a deep understanding of the needs of patients in this category and the factors influencing rehabilitation effectiveness. Results. The main prerequisites for successful occupational therapy include considering the specifics of the burn injury, depth of damage, localization, pain syndrome, sensory and mobility disorders, as well as the psychological state of the serviceman. An occupational therapy program was developed, which includes three stages: acute period – prevention of contractures, proper positioning of the limb, skin protection, minimal active and passive movements; subacute period – motor development, sensory stimulation, self-care training; and readaptation period – restoration of professional skills, use of adaptive devices, adaptation to daily and social environments. To unify the rehabilitation process, occupational therapy should be based on the complaints of patients that correspond to the domains of the International Classification of Functioning. The algorithm of actions for the occupational therapist includes: functional status assessment, defining rehabilitation goals, developing an intervention program, implementing occupational therapy methods, evaluating results, and timely correction. During the implementation of the program, occupational therapy methods should be combined, integrated, and alternated so that the action of one method enhances the other. Using exercises with objects, simulating real-life situations, exercises for fine motor skills, tactile stimulation, and applying ergonomic equipment – all of these contribute to achieving greater effectiveness. Engaging and motivating the patient helps improve their emotional state, increases activity during sessions, and promotes a return to everyday activities. Conclusion. The main prerequisites for effective occupational therapy should consider functional impairments that occur after a hand burn, with appropriately selected assessment tools that will not only help apply occupational therapy but also allow controlling the effectiveness of the program’s implementation and its step-by-step correction. An important aspect is the patient-centered approach, which involves combining occupational therapy methods, motivating the serviceman to actively participate in rehabilitation, and restoring autonomy in both daily and professional spheres.