Exploring the role of social work in U.S. burn centers

Identifying and Assisting Burn Patients and Their Families With Needs Through Administration of an Assessment Tool on Admission

Using a modified Safe Environment for Every Kid Questionnaire (Needs Survey), we previously showed a significant correlation between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and family needs. Herein, we retrospectively assessed whether patients' and their families' needs identified using the Needs Survey were addressed prior to discharge. We hypothesized that, without the knowledge gained by administering this tool, many basic needs may not have been fully addressed. Seventy-nine burn patients and families previously enrolled in our ACE studies were included. Answers to the Needs Surveys were reviewed to identify families with needs. Medical records were reviewed to determine if a social worker assessment (SWA) was completed per standard of care and if their needs were addressed prior to discharge. Of the 79 burn patients who received inpatient care and completed the Needs Survey, family needs were identified in 67 (84.8%); 42 (62.7%) received an SWA, and 25 (37.3%) did not. Those who did not receive a SWA had a shorter hospitalization and suffered less severe burns. Demographics, socioeconomics, ACEs, and identified needs were similar between the groups. Our study showed that SWA was performed on many patients with basic needs. However, with the focus of SWAs being on discharge arrangements, not all needs were addressed, and individualized resources were often not provided. Administering the Needs Survey on admission may help our social workers streamline and expedite this process to help support successful recovery for our burn patients and their families.