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  4. Patients’ experiences with goal setting during initial rehabilitation after newly acquired spinal cord injury: A pilot qualitative interview study

Patients’ experiences with goal setting during initial rehabilitation after newly acquired spinal cord injury: A pilot qualitative interview study

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2023 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2095496 · Published: January 1, 2023

Spinal Cord InjuryRehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores how patients with new spinal cord injuries experience setting goals during their initial rehabilitation. It looks at what helps or hinders them in this process. The research focuses on the organizational aspects of the rehabilitation center, like ward rounds and team meetings, and how these elements influence goal setting. It also considers the patients' personal characteristics and motivations. The study highlights the importance of individualized goal setting, where goals are tailored to each patient's specific needs and preferences, rather than following a standardized process.

Study Duration
October to December 2019
Participants
10 participants in initial rehabilitation after a newly acquired SCI/D
Evidence Level
Qualitative study with semi-structured interviews

Key Findings

  • 1
    Participants emphasized the need for individualized goal setting that caters to their unique needs and preferences, rather than adhering to a standard procedure.
  • 2
    Interprofessional collaboration, where different professional groups contribute to goal setting, was perceived positively by participants, fostering trust and security.
  • 3
    Motivation and determination were identified as crucial for successful goal setting, with participants noting that positive experiences and support from healthcare providers increased their motivation.

Research Summary

This qualitative study explored patients' experiences with goal setting after newly acquired SCI/D in an ICF-based rehabilitation setting with working IPTs. Patients underlined that there was no standardized best practice in goal setting and that individually tailored goal setting was important to increase motivation and engagement. Organization and collaboration among the IPTs, a patient’s personal characteristics and enabling patients through good communication proved to be relevant for patient-tailored goal setting.

Practical Implications

Tailored Rehabilitation Programs

Rehabilitation programs should be tailored to meet the individual needs and preferences of patients with SCI/D, rather than following a standardized approach.

Interprofessional Collaboration

Healthcare teams should foster collaboration and communication among different professional groups to ensure comprehensive and patient-centered goal setting.

Enhanced Communication Training

Healthcare providers should receive communication training to improve their ability to engage patients in shared decision-making and goal setting.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Single center study
  • 2
    Selection bias due to purposive sampling
  • 3
    Subjective perceptions of the goal setting process

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