Introduction

Advancements in burn wound care at emergency departments and specialised burn centres have significantly improved survival rates for individuals with severe or massive burn wound injuries. Consequently, there is a growing emphasis on enhancing post-burn outcomes. Scar management is a major area of interest, with up to 70% of individuals developing hypertrophic scars following a burn. If left untreated, these scars can cause ongoing pruritus (itching), pain, stiffness and contracture, which can have profound effects on the function and psychological well-being of burn survivors.

This course explores the use of pressure garment therapy as a treatment option for hypertrophic scars. The discussion includes an overview of the evidence for pressure garment therapy, best practice, and alternative options when custom pressure garments are not available.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• describe key clinical features of hypertrophic scars caused by burn wound injuries
• discuss important considerations when fitting and using custom pressure garments, including wearing schedules, garment care, wearing over open wounds and specialty areas
• compare the clinical outcomes and features of custom versus non-custom pressure garments in the management of hypertrophic scars

Target audience

This course is aimed at Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy clinicians, students and assistants. Other interested professionals such as athletic trainers, occupational therapists, nurses or medical doctors interested in this subject are also invited to participate.

Practicalities

• Availability - this course is online and can be completed on your own schedule.
• Hours of Learning - No deadlines are applied to this course and it can be started and completed in your own time according to your personal schedule. We expect the required elements to take around 1-1.5 hours depending on your schedule and learning style. Additionally there are many optional resources provided and if you choose to review these the course could take longer to complete.
• Types of Activities - This course includes instructional and/or practical videos, reading activities, AI supported learning activities, reflection, evaluation forms, a quiz and additional resources.
• Certificates - At the end of the course, when you have completed all of the required elements, you will be able to download a certificate of completion and 1.1 Plus points will be added to your personalised learning dashboard.

Instructor financial and non-financial disclosures

No relevant relationships disclosed by instructor.

Accessibility and Non-Discrimination Policy

Physiopedia Plus is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all participants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, sex, disability, military status, sexual orientation or age in any aspect of our continuing education services. We are dedicated to ensuring that all learners can fully participate in our programmes. Participants who require accommodations or have special needs are encouraged to contact us with details so that we can make all reasonable efforts to meet these requirements.