Evaluation of a Community Reintegration Outpatient Program Service for Community-Dwelling Persons with Spinal Cord Injury

Rehabilitation Research and Practice, 2014 · DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2014/989025 · Published: December 9, 2014

Spinal Cord Injury Patient Experience Public Health

Simple Explanation

This study looked at a program called CROP, which helps people with spinal cord injuries get back into their communities. The program teaches skills for managing life with a spinal cord injury, like dealing with pain and stress. The study found that people in the program felt better about themselves and had a more positive outlook, but these improvements didn't last long-term.

Study Duration

12 weeks with follow-up at 3 months

Participants

14 community-dwelling adults with traumatic and nontraumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Self-efficacy (MSES) and positive affect (PANAS) improved from baseline to exit (𝑃< .05), but the changes were not maintained at follow-up.
2
Qualitative analysis identified four major themes related to therapeutic benefits: (1) role of self; (2) knowledge acquisition; (3) skill application; and (4) group processes.
3
Participation in a therapeutic education service has the potential to improve well-being in persons with SCI, but there is a need to identify strategies to maintain long-term gains.

Research Summary

The study evaluated the effectiveness of a community reintegration outpatient (CROP) service for promoting well-being and community participation following spinal cord injury (SCI). The CROP service is a 12-week interprofessional closed therapeutic education service that imparts self-management strategies. Self-efficacy and positive affect improved from baseline to exit, but the changes were not maintained at follow-up; qualitative analysis identified themes related to therapeutic benefits.

Practical Implications

Program Design

Consider incorporating follow-up or 'booster' sessions to maintain long-term therapeutic gains.

Skill Application

Provide more opportunities for participants to practice skills and knowledge in various community settings.

Clinical Practice

Implement self-management programs with a group approach to improve self-efficacy and promote positive affect.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size
2
Participant interviews only conducted at completion of the service
3
Inability to follow-up with the entire sample on all of the planned assessments

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