Exploring the Experiences of Burn Pain From the Perspectives of Patients and Healthcare Providers: A Descriptive Qualitative Study

Abstract

Burn pain is among the most distressing and complex aspects of burn injuries, significantly impeding the treatment process and overall patient care. Despite advancements in pain management, many patients with burn injuries continue to experience inadequate relief. Investigating the experiences of both patients and healthcare providers offers valuable insights into the challenges of pain management. This qualitative study was conducted in Iran between 2024 and 2025. Eighteen hospitalized patients with burn injuries and 21 healthcare providers-including physicians, nurses, psychologists, and physiotherapists-were selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered via semi-structured individual interviews until saturation and analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman's content analysis method, supported by MAXQDA 2020 software. Four main categories and 13 subcategories emerged: "Endless suffering accompanied by a sense of collapse," "The cycle of suffering and restlessness," "Barriers to pain relief," and "A holistic approach to pain management." Findings showed that patients endured severe physical pain along with psychological distress such as anxiety, despair, and sleep disturbances, while healthcare providers emphasized systemic barriers, resource limitations, and the restricted effectiveness of current approaches. These results highlight the multifaceted and enduring nature of burn pain and underscore the importance of addressing both patient experiences and provider challenges. In conclusion (shortened), burn pain represents one of the most intense and debilitating forms of suffering, with consequences extending beyond the physical dimension. Targeted strategies informed by these insights may improve the quality of care and patient outcomes.