Suicide by Burning: Emotional Needs of the Suicidal Adolescent on the Burn Unit

Examines risk factors & history associated with self-immolation in adolescents. Risk factors identified include preexisting psychopathology, family conflict & prior attempts. Discusses impact of burn hospitalization on developmental tasks of adolescence. Presents 3 case studies & a sample nursing care plan. Identifies nursing attitudes toward the self-immolator on the burn unit. Nursing care requires attention to development of positive self-esteem & acceptable coping strategies. (8 refs.) (KM)