Methods for Data Collection While the wound is healing, weekly photos will help track wound progression. Also, having the same research nurse and doctor present for weekly dressing changes will ensure wound care is performed appropriately and adequately. Using the Vancouver scar scale (VSS) at six months post-burn will assess the scar’s vascularity, pigmentation, pliability, and height (Fearmonti et al., 2010). The disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score and the lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) is more of a subjective questionnaire to the injured patient (Hudak, 1996). These scores test different functional capabilities such as the difficulty in opening a new jar, turning a key, washing your back, using a knife to cut food, …show more content…
However, these scales will show which dressings gives the patient the best outcomes after the wound heals. Burn wounds are known for hypertrophic scaring and contractures, minimizing the scaring and increasing mobility is vital for the patients to function as they did before they were injured.
Outcome Measures the Objectives The objectives of the study will be measured when the VSS, DASH, and LEFS scales are performed and evaluated. These scales will show which dressing decreased scaring and increased mobility. By reviewing the pictures and documenting the date the burn occurred and the date the wound was completely healed, will assess which dressing heals wounds quicker.
Validity & Reliability The validity and reliability of the study will be ensured by having a large number of participants enrolled over an entire year. Ideally, the study will enroll at least one hundred patients, putting half in SSD cream and half in hydrocolloid dressings. The scales at the end of the study will be a true objective test that does not require subjective opinions from heath care professionals who may be