Rehabilitation clinics in Germany

For the time after the hospital stay
After the initial inpatient treatment, the little patient will need to attend regular outpatient follow-up appointments at the hospital. These will extend over a longer period of time so the physicians can observe how well the scars are developing. They know the treatment course to-date, and are best placed to decide whether the therapy needs to be improved or altered in any way.
If the burn injuries extend over a joint, the child will generally also require physiotherapy or occupational therapy. This treatment should be continued in the patient’s home town immediately after discharge from hospital to ensure the joints remain mobile and no setbacks occur. It is best to start searching for suitable clinics close to home while still in the hospital – the friendly hospital staff, or the people at the Paulinchen society or the German Association for Scar Therapy are only too happy to assist with this. For severe injury cases, inpatient rehabilitation is sometimes the best option. There are particular hospitals that specialize in helping their young patients return to a normal life. The treating physicians will discuss this with the family. 

Further sources of help

There are a range of professional staff in a hospital who can assist with the practical problems associated with a burn injury in a child, and in dealing with the trauma involved:

Psychological support and pastoral care
A burn accident can traumatize the whole family – the parents as well as the child. Psychologists and chaplains are therefore available in all hospitals to speak to the affected persons and provide their support. It is worthwhile asking the physician or nursing staff about this source of assistance. It will take some of the heavy burden off the shoulders of the injured child and their relatives.

Community outreach
Every hospital has outreach programs. These can provide valuable assistance if, for example, family carers have siblings to take care of as well, or on matters to do with the level of care or the time after discharge from hospital.

Paulinchen – Initiative for Young Burn Victims
Paulinchen is a self-help group that provides access to knowledgeable contact persons immediately after the accident. Talking to other affected families can help people find comfort and consolation and summon up new courage.

DBNT – German Association for Scar Therapy
The DBNT comprises experts in orthopaedic technology, in particular in the field of scar therapy, who can help find the best possible treatment option for patients. They promote professional development, exchange experiences, collaborate with other specialist fields, and also provide information to patients.