Final answer:
To prevent contractures in a patient with 35% total body surface area burns, a comprehensive and consistent appropriate physical therapy plan including passive range of motion exercises, potentially splints, and occupational therapy is crucial to regain function and reduce complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the rehabilitative phase of care for a patient with 35% total body surface area burns, it is critical to employ an appropriate physical therapy plan to reduce the risk of developing contractures. The physical therapy regimen would likely start with heat application to increase blood flow and enhance healing, followed by a personalized series of exercises that the patient can continue at home. Effective therapy also includes ice application to reduce inflammation and swelling. Moreover, physical therapy should be comprehensive and include passive range of motion exercises to maintain joint mobility, and may extend to the use of splints to immobilize and protect affected areas from contractures. Additionally, integrating occupational therapy can be beneficial in teaching the patient how to perform daily activities safely, which contributes to overall recovery and reduces the risk of contracture.
Also, a committed schedule, such as physical therapy two hours a day, could be vital to ensure consistent treatment and monitoring of progress. It's a collaborative effort between physical therapists and patients to restore normal levels of physical activity and functionality of the affected areas. Occupational therapy, if offered one hour every other day, should be considered alongside physical therapy to cover different aspects of the rehabilitative process.