Ms Tania McWilliams¹

¹Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, Australia, ²Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia

Abstract:

Introduction

Paediatric burn patients receive their initial acute assessment and management in a variety of clinical settings by clinicians who have varying levels of experience and knowledge in caring for these patients. In providing this care, clinicians experience both barriers and supports which can affect the treatment provided and the patient’s outcome.

Aim

This qualitative study aimed to explore the perceived factors influencing the implementation of best practice in the acute assessment and management of paediatric burn patients in Western Australia.

Method

Interviews of nineteen referring clinicians using open-ended questions were conducted and analysed, utilising the Gilbert Behaviour Engineering Model as a framework to explore the factors influencing clinical practice.

Results

The interviews highlighted a number of factors which influenced non-burn specialist clinician practice when providing the acute assessment and management of paediatric burn patients in Western Australia. Whilst some factors were perceived as barriers, other factors were supportive in providing optimal patient care.

Conclusion

Referring clinicians work in a variety of environments and face various barriers and supports when a paediatric burn patient first presents to their healthcare facility. By exploring the factors which hinder and help these clinicians, we can assist in overcoming barriers and expanding supports in the future to optimise patient care state-wide.

Biography:

Clinical Nurse Consultant for Burns at Perth Children’s Hospital.

Worked in burns for over 20 years.

Special interests: rural/remote clinician education, telehealth, infection control, paediatric burns.