eCASH Concept-Based Care for Patients With Small-Area Burns: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Background. Small-area burn is a common but specific type of injury that can still lead to serious complications if not managed properly. Researchers have introduced a number of interventions. Objective. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of eCASH concept-based care (ie, eBCare) with those of standard treatment on wound healing in patients with small-area burns. Methods. In this prospective randomized controlled trial, patients with small-area burns received either eBCare (n = 35) or standard burn treatment (n = 35) for 2 weeks. Pain, anxiety, heart rate, exudate, and wound area were measured during and after dressing changes. Scar color and thickness were assessed 4 years or longer after discharge. Results. The eBCare group had a lower median pain score, anxiety score, and heart rate compared with the control group (P < .001). The eBCare group also had a higher median wound healing rate on day 14 than the control group (P < .05). At follow-up 4 years or more after discharge, the eBCare group had better scar color and thickness than the control group (P < .05). Conclusion. The use of eBCare reduced pain and anxiety, accelerated wound healing, and improved scar outcomes in patients with small-area burns, which suggests that eBCare may be a feasible option for this population.