화상환자의 소양증 관리를 위한 경타법 적용 효과

Abstract

Purpose: Post-burn pruritus is one of the most prevalent complications experienced by burn patients. Though medications are prescribed for pruritus, managing this condition can prove challenging. The aim of this research was to develop and disseminate non-pharmacological self-management educational resources, and subsequently evaluate the effectiveness of implementing a percussion therapy approach. Methods: A one-group pretest-posttest design was employed to evaluate the effect of percussion therapy on one hundred patients, all of whom had suffered deep second-degree burns and undergone skin graft surgery. Variables such as the severity of pruritus, distress caused by pruritus, and satisfaction with pruritus treatment were scrutinized. A paired t-test was conducted to compare these variables before and after the intervention. Results: The majority of participants were diagnosed with third-degree burns, and the average Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) affected was 25.2%. Post-test results revealed a marked reduction in both severity and distress caused by pruritus. The intervention led to significant decreases in average severity and pain due to itchiness, and an increase in the satisfaction level following the application of percussion therapy. Conclusions: The implementation of the percussion was identified as effective in diminishing post-burn pruritus, alleviating pruritus-associated pain, and enhancing satisfaction with pruritus treatment. The percussion approach presents itself as a non-invasive, non-pharmacological strategy for managing pruritus in burn patients.