The psychiatrist on the burns unit.

The first 12 months of a new consultation-liaison service to a burns unit is described. Management of contact between the psychiatrist and the burns team is discussed and diagnostic categories are given for referrals seen. Diagnostic criteria are not achieved for many patients assessed, and yet the burns team still requires help managing patients who are psychologically disturbed. Education and a forum for team discussion are used as a way for the burns team to integrate psychological work in the management of their patients.