A Day in the Life…a Burns Physiotherapist
Celebrating 25 years of Children’s Burns Trust & our relationship with the incredible people working in the UK Burn Services, we have asked those involved in the care of children who experience burn and scald injuries and who receive treatment in the specialist Burns Centres to answer a series of questions about their work. We hope you will find these stories as interesting and moving as we have. Our fifth story comes from Louise Johnson a burns physiotherapist working with children and adults following a burn injury at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Newcastle.
How long have you been working in burn care?
More than 20 years with just burns plus another 10 before that experiencing other areas of plastic surgery, hand surgery as well as burns.
Can you describe a typical day?
Non-stop! 8am start with the ward round and handover, discussion with my physio colleagues on the priorities for the day and delegation of the case load. Will see patients with their dressing change so they have more freedom of movement. Always like to see them again later to check that they have recovered and are still able to do some exercises in their new dressings. Sometimes a trip to theatre particularly for children to perform exercises whilst asleep. Otherwise will aim for a more active session in the gym as a change of environment is important and a break from the ward. Children are generally easier to treat than adults as they love to play and show off – always a good incentive. After lunch there is the burn follow up clinic for scar management and it’s great to see how well people are getting on. Once back at home things can be easier but for others the protection that the burn ward gives is a big miss. Having time to talk to parents once they have been home for a few weeks can be very helpful to for their support. If time I might escape back to the ward – more physio is always better – short sharp bursts. Then end of the day – paperwork – has to be done!
What led you to specialise in burn care, and what keeps you passionate about it?
It’s an area where physio can really make a difference in someone’s long term recovery. Being part of the MDT who all work to get someone back to how they were before their accident is amazing. Teamwork is essential.
What are some of the challenges you encounter, and how do you manage them?
Some patients are very reluctant and need a lot of encouragement. They have a fear of moving in case it will hurt and their dressings might fall off. Educating a patient and their family in why they need to move is very important. Consistency is also necessary so they are confident with what you are doing. Setting small achievable goals usually work as well as bribery and corruption!
How does working with children and families affect how you approach your day?
I need to learn what’s cool – probably not saying cool! What’s top on TikTok, Insta and the latest films but I do struggle trying to do that research and remain current, so I let the children teach me.
What part of your role do you find most rewarding?
Seeing them go home after being a presence around the ward. I am lucky that I get to see them in follow up clinics so I can see how quick they progress. Love seeing them at camp and regaining their confidence and personalities shine.
What difference does support from charities like Children’s Burns Trust make to your patients and your team?
Some families would really struggle without charity support both financially and psychologically so it’s great that we have such a good relationship. The NHS does not have the resources to do all those extra bits that charities can help with.
Have you been involved in any fundraising activities to support Children’s Burns Trust and if so can you tell us a little more about that?
No, but maybe in the future.
What one thing would you communicate to support the prevention of burn injuries in children and young people?
Never assume that they can’t do something – they are very inquisitive and progress very quickly.
In your time in the role, how have you seen burn care and family support evolve?
Yes – I have been working with CBT for over 20 years with family therapy weekends in conjunction with the Firefighters charity. The weekends have changed considerably with the support from all the families and staff that have attended and are a great weekend for all.
Do you have a message you would like to share with Children’s Burns Trust on their 25th anniversary?
Thank you, keep up your great work.
Contribute to our 25 year anniversary fundraiser
Your donations to the Children’s Burns Trust 25 year anniversary fundraiser will go directly to help us continue our work for the next 25 years. Contribute to our fundraiser.
Related content
Donate to us
Campaigns
