Assessment of Referring Providers Use and Perceptions of the Burnett Burn Assessment and Management Tool for Estimating Burn Size

Abstract

Accurate assessment of burn percentage and depth are critical aspects in the initial assessment of the burn patient and guide both the immediate clinical management and subsequent need for follow up. To better assist providers in out-lying facilities, The University of Kansas Health System (TUKHS) Burnett Burn Center developed the Burnett Burn Assessment and Management Tool (BBAMT), which was recently distributed to referring hospitals and clinics. The purpose of this project was to assess the knowledge and perceived needs of outside providers of the burn wound triage and referral process, by evaluating 1) the implementation of the evidence based BBAMT with outlying providers; and, 2) the perceived needs of referring providers for accurate triage of burn wounds to TUKHS inpatient Burnett Burn Center or Outpatient Burn and Wound Care Clinic (OBWCC). A convenience sample of providers (n=14) were recruited, to evaluate the use of the BBAMT for treatment of a patient. The email addresses of referring providers were recorded and a needs assessment survey was sent by email using open-ended and likert style questions. Tool accessibility was moderate (mean of 3.6), provider’s understanding and confidence were higher (mean 4.5 and 4.4, respectively). The BBAMTs helpfulness in determining burn %TBSA, burn depth, and referral to inpatient vs. outpatient was also high (mean 4.1). Four common themes were identified from the open-ended question: overwhelming; inpatient vs. outpatient care; fluid calculation; and valuable. This study provided new knowledge of the perspective and competency needs of outside providers of the burn wound triage and referral process. Recommendations for improvements to the BBAMT and the distribution process of the tool to surrounding facilities have been made.