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Löfvenmark I, Mogome W, Sekakela K. Outcomes 10-years after traumatic spinal cord injury in Botswana - a long-term follow-up study. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 2024; 10:57. [PMID: 39112469 PMCID: PMC11306236 DOI: 10.1038/s41394-024-00671-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Prospective follow-up study. OBJECTIVES To describe outcomes, survival, and attendance to routine follow-up visits 10 years post-SCI. SETTING The national SCI-rehabilitation center in Botswana. METHODS All persons who were admitted with traumatic SCI during a 2-year period, 2011-2013, and survived up to 2 years post-injury were included. Data were collected from the medical records from the follow-up assessment closest to 10 years post-SCI and included demographic and clinical characteristics, functional outcomes, and secondary complications. Data regarding mortalities were received from relatives. Statistical comparisons were made, when possible, between those who attend follow-up assessment and those who did not, and between those who survived up to 10 years post-SCI and those who died. RESULTS The follow-up rate was 76% (19/25) of known survivors. No statistically significant factors were found to affect the follow-up rate. Secondary complications rates were for pressure ulcers and urinary tract infections 21%. Self-catheterisation and suprapubic catheter were the preferred methods to manage neurogenic bladder dysfunction. Ten persons (26%) had deceased since 2nd follow-up assessment. The causes of death were probably SCI-related in more than half of the cases. CONCLUSIONS This was a follow-up study at year 10 after acute TSCI in Botswana conducted at the national SCI-rehabilitation center. The study supports previous reports regarding the importance of that having specialized SCI units and the need of structured follow-ups, a responsible person in charge of scheduling, and updated patient registers. We found high follow-up rate, low rates of complications and of patients being lost to follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inka Löfvenmark
- Karolinska Institutet, Institution for neurobiology, care science and society, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Spinalis Foundation, Solna, Sweden.
| | - Wame Mogome
- Spinalis Botswana SCI-rehabilitation Centre, Gaborone, Botswana
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Rauter US, Mathye D. Peer support as pressure ulcer prevention strategy in special school learners with paraplegia. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOTHERAPY 2024; 80:2047. [PMID: 39114424 PMCID: PMC11304358 DOI: 10.4102/sajp.v80i1.2047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Adults with spinal cord injuries perceived peer support as beneficial in preventing secondary health conditions, but the role of peer support among adolescent learners with paraplegia in special schools is still unknown. Objectives To explore the perspectives of current and previous learners with paraplegia on peer support to prevent pressure ulcers in a special school. Method A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive study design was used. The authors conducted 12 semi-structured telephonic, audio-recorded interviews and a focus group discussion with current and previous learners with paraplegia attending a special school. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and translated, and data were organised using the Nvivo-12 Pro program. Through conducting an inductive thematic analysis categories, sub-themes and themes were identified from the participants' narratives. Results The participants' perspectives included positive and challenging aspects of peer support reflected in four sub-themes: group-based support, individual peer mentoring, challenges with peer support and the roles of the school physiotherapist regarding peer support. Conclusion Learners saw peer support as a crucial strategy in preventing and reducing pressure ulcers. Establishing a peer support system with group and individual components in special schools could be a game-changer to end pressure ulcers among learners with paraplegia and ensure better health and educational outcomes. Clinical implications Physiotherapists in special schools should support peer support initiatives among learners with paraplegia to ensure successful pressure ulcer prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Undine S Rauter
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Desmond Mathye
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
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Sadeghi-Naini M, Jazayeri SB, Kankam SB, Ghodsi Z, Baigi V, Zeinaddini Meymand A, Pourrashidi A, Azadmanjir Z, Dashtkoohi M, Zendehdel K, Pirnejad H, Fakharian E, O'Reilly GM, Vaccaro AR, Shakeri A, Yousefzadeh-Chabok S, Babaei M, Kouchakinejad-Eramsadati L, Haji Ghadery A, Aryannejad A, Piri SM, Azarhomayoun A, Sadeghi-Bazargani H, Daliri S, Lotfi MS, Pourandish Y, Bagheri L, Rahimi-Movaghar V. Quality of in-hospital care in traumatic spinal column and cord injuries (TSC/SCI) in I.R Iran. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2024; 33:1585-1596. [PMID: 37999768 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-023-08010-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to implement the Quality of Care (QoC) Assessment Tool from the National Spinal Cord/Column Injury Registry of Iran (NSCIR-IR) to map the current state of in-hospital QoC of individuals with Traumatic Spinal Column and Cord Injuries (TSCCI). METHODS The QoC Assessment Tool, developed from a scoping review of the literature, was implemented in NSCIR-IR. We collected the required data from two primary sources. Questions regarding health system structures and care processes were completed by the registrar nurse reviewing the hospital records. Questions regarding patient outcomes were gathered through patient interviews. RESULTS We registered 2812 patients with TSCCI over six years from eight referral hospitals in NSCIR-IR. The median length of stay in the general hospital and intensive care unit was four and five days, respectively. During hospitalization 4.2% of patients developed pressure ulcers, 83.5% of patients reported satisfactory pain control and none had symptomatic urinary tract infections. 100%, 80%, and 90% of SCI registration centers had 24/7 access to CT scans, MRI scans, and operating rooms, respectively. Only 18.8% of patients who needed surgery underwent a surgical operation in the first 24 h after admission. In-hospital mortality rate for patients with SCI was 19.3%. CONCLUSION Our study showed that the current in-hospital care of our patients with TSCCI is acceptable in terms of pain control, structure and length of stay and poor regarding in-hospital mortality rate and timeliness. We must continue to work on lowering rates of pressure sores, as well as delays in decompression surgery and fatalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Sadeghi-Naini
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khoram-Abad, Iran
| | - Seyed Behnam Jazayeri
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samuel Berchi Kankam
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- International Neurosurgery Group (ING), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (Usern), Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Ghodsi
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vali Baigi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khoram-Abad, Iran
| | | | | | - Zahra Azadmanjir
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Dashtkoohi
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kazem Zendehdel
- Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Habibollah Pirnejad
- Patient Safety Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management (ESHPM), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Esmaeil Fakharian
- Trauma Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, IR, Iran
| | - Gerard M O'Reilly
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Emergency and Trauma Centre, The Alfred, Melbourne, Australia
- National Trauma Research Institute, The Alfred, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alex R Vaccaro
- Department of Orthopedics and Neurosurgery, Rothman Institute, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aidin Shakeri
- Neurosurgical Surgery Department, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | | | - Mohammadreza Babaei
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Abdolkarim Haji Ghadery
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Radiology, Advanced Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Research Center (ADIR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Armin Aryannejad
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Piri
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Azarhomayoun
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Salman Daliri
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Imam Hossein Hospital, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | | | - Yasaman Pourandish
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Laleh Bagheri
- Shahid Rahnemoun Hospital, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Vafa Rahimi-Movaghar
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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Kanyoni M, Wikmar LN, Philips J, Tumusiime DK. Psychosocial reintegration post-traumatic spinal cord injury in Rwanda: An exploratory study. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOTHERAPY 2024; 80:1996. [PMID: 38445219 PMCID: PMC10913185 DOI: 10.4102/sajp.v80i1.1996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) survivors are confronted by both physical and psychosocial barriers when returning to their communities. Therefore, reintegration is an important aspect of their journey back into social life. Objectives To assess psychosocial reintegration after TSCI in Rwanda. Method All community-dwelling adults who were registered in the previous epidemiological study were recruited and injury characteristics questionnaire and the Sydney Psychosocial Reintegration Scale version 2 (SPRS-2) were used to collect data through a telephone interview. Results The study traced 58 participants, 77.6% (n = 45) were male and 56.9% (n = 33) were categorised with paraplegia. Overall, the results show poor community reintegration. The SPRS-2 and domain mean (SD) scores were: overall SPRS-2 of 20.95 (11.56), occupational activity (OA) of 3.68 (4.31), interpersonal relationship (IR) of 7.11(4.31) and living skills (LS) of 7.43 (5.32). Gender significantly influenced overall SPRS-2 (p = 0.011) and two domains: OA (p = 0.005) and LS (p = 0.012). Level of injury was significantly associated with an OA domain score of SPRS-2 (p = 0.002). Gender explained 29% of the variance in the LS domain of SPRS-2, with males reporting better psychosocial reintegration. Conclusion Gender strongly predicted psychosocial reintegration following a TSCI, which is an indication of the role of social support. Clinical Implications Traumatic SCI rehabilitation should be holistic to help prepare the person to return to the community. There should be an assessment of an individual's readiness to return to the community before discharge from the hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurice Kanyoni
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Lena N. Wikmar
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joliana Philips
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Science, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David K. Tumusiime
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
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Joseph C, Thurston C, Nizeyimana E, Scriba E, Conradsson DM, Rhoda A. Prevalence of secondary health conditions and mental status in persons with long-term spinal cord injury in South Africa: Comparison between public and private healthcare sectors. S Afr Med J 2023; 113:46-53. [PMID: 37170601 DOI: 10.7196/samj.2023.v113i5.16791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord injuries typically result in a range of negative health outcomes and health states, which impacts overall functioning, health and well-being. It remains important to establish the prevalence (burden) of health outcomes to help with the development of optimal treatment strategies. OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence and treatment rates of secondary health conditions (SHCs) and mental health states in persons with long-term spinal cord injury (SCI) receiving public compared with private healthcare services in South Africa. METHODS A cross-sectional survey included 200 community-dwelling persons with long-term SCI, 60% with paraplegia, 53% with complete injuries and 156 from the public and 44 from private healthcare sectors. The following modules of the International Spinal Cord Injury (InSCI) community survey were used: (i) demographic and injury characteristics; (ii) SHCs and treatment rates; and (iii) vitality and emotional well-being. All statistical analyses were stratified according to healthcare sector. RESULTS Pain (47% v. 57), sexual dysfunction (59% v. 41%) and muscle spasms (54% v. 43%) were the most common SHCs in both cohorts, and the period prevalence was significantly higher for sleeping problems (41% v. 25%), sexual dysfunction (59% v. 41%) and contractures (42% v. 20%) in the public compared with the private cohort. Persons with SCI in the private cohort received treatment more often for sleeping problems (100% v. 45%), autonomic dysreflexia (75% v. 27%) and pain (56% v. 33%) than their counterparts with public insurance. Negative mental health states were prevalent in both groups. CONCLUSION SHCs and negative mental health were common in persons with SCI in South Africa, while those with public insurance reporter a higher occurrence of sleep problems and contractures, as well as lower treatment rates. Overall, a need exists to better support persons with SCI in the long-term context to facilitate improved functioning and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Joseph
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences; Division of Physiotherapy; Stellenbosch University; Cape Town.
| | - C Thurston
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.
| | - E Nizeyimana
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - E Scriba
- Spescare Medical Facility, Stellenbosch, Cape Town.
| | - D M Conradsson
- Women's Health and Allied Health Professionals Theme, Medical Unit Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - A Rhoda
- Deanery, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Bezuidenhout L, Rhoda A, Moulaee Conradsson D, Mothabeng J, Joseph C. The Role of Environmental Factors on Health Conditions, General Health and Quality of Life in Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries in South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20095709. [PMID: 37174227 PMCID: PMC10178437 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20095709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to describe the individual items of the environmental factors and to investigate the relationship between the environmental factors to health conditions, general health and quality of life in people with SCI in South Africa. METHODS Two hundred persons with SCI participated in a cross-sectional survey design. This study formed part of the International Spinal Cord Injury (InSCI) Community Survey. Four major domains, environmental factors, health conditions, general health and quality of life of the survey questionnaire responses, were used for the analysis. Regression models were used to determine the association between the independent variable, which consisted of the specific environmental factors items, and the dependent variables comprising health conditions, general health and quality of life. RESULTS The commonly reported environmental barriers were public access, lack of short- and long-distance transport and finances. Environmental factors such as public access (p < 0.001), short- (p < 0.001) and long-distance transport (p = 0.001), and friends' (p = 0.003) and colleagues' (p < 0.001) attitudes and communication (p = 0.042) were significantly associated with the presence of secondary health conditions. Finances (p = 0.026), family attitudes (p = 0.037) and communication (p = 0.039) had a significant association with worsened mental health. Services (p = 0.022) and communication (p = 0.042) were also significantly associated with decreased general health. CONCLUSION The results provide insight into modifiable environmental factors policymakers need to consider or adapt to improve the lives of people with SCI in South Africa with respect to health (secondary health conditions), as well as general and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucian Bezuidenhout
- Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7701, South Africa
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anthea Rhoda
- Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7701, South Africa
| | - David Moulaee Conradsson
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7602, South Africa
- Medical Unit Occupational Therapy & Physiotherapy, Theme Women's Health and Allied Health Professional, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joyce Mothabeng
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Conran Joseph
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7602, South Africa
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Alves MA, Pilusa S, Mashola MK. The prevalence and profile of spinal cord injury in public healthcare rehabilitation units in Gauteng, South Africa. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 2023; 9:15. [PMID: 37055403 PMCID: PMC10102299 DOI: 10.1038/s41394-023-00571-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective medical record review. OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence and describe the profile of person with SCI (PWSCI) admitted in the public healthcare sector in Gauteng, South Africa. SETTING Specialized public healthcare rehabilitation units in Gauteng, South Africa. METHODS Medical records of PWSCI admitted to public healthcare rehabilitation units between 01 January 2018 and 31 December 2019 were perused. Data were collected anonymously and then summarised using descriptive and inferential statistics. Significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS 386 of 998 participants (38.7%) were admitted following SCI and the mean age was 36.9 years. Most participants were male (69.9%), with females significantly more likely to sustain a NTSCI (p < 0.001), which was the least common cause of SCI (34.9%). Those sustaining a TSCI were found to be significantly younger than their NTSCI counterparts (p < 0.001). Assault was the leading cause of injury (35.2%), and a positive HIV status with the presence of comorbidities were found to be significant risk factors for developing a NTSCI (p < 0.001). Most injuries were between T7-T12 (39.9%) and were complete (56.9%). The rehabilitation length of stay 85.6 days, with a mortality rate of 6.48%. CONCLUSIONS Gauteng has among the highest global proportion of TSCI due to assault. Of interest, more females sustained a NTSCI than their male counterparts. There is a need to strengthen SCI prevention strategies, particularly targeting assault in young males and infectious causes in females and older populations. Further epidemiological and outcomes-based research is required for PWSCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Alexandre Alves
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sonti Pilusa
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mokgadi Kholofelo Mashola
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
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Autonomic dysreflexia in patients with spinal cord injury. Nursing 2023; 53:21-26. [PMID: 36573864 DOI: 10.1097/01.nurse.0000902944.16062.1f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Patients with traumatic spinal cord injury have a vast array of secondary pathophysiologic effects, one of which is autonomic dysreflexia (AD). It can be triggered by noxious stimuli and cause severe and fatal consequences that require rapid intervention. This article examines AD and its implications for nursing care.
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Williams TL, Joseph C, Nilsson-Wikmar L, Phillips J. Exploration of the Experiences of Persons in the Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Population in Relation to Chronic Pain Management. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:77. [PMID: 36612393 PMCID: PMC9819756 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain amongst individuals with traumatic and nontraumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) has high prevalence rates, with severe impact on the activities of daily living, mood, sleep and quality of life. This study aimed to explore the experiences and challenges of chronic pain management amongst the traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) population in the Western Cape region of South Africa. A qualitative descriptive approach was chosen for the study, in which 13 individuals living with TSCI were purposively recruited and interviewed telephonically. An inductive thematic analytic approach was used. The results indicate ineffectiveness of standard pain management, with a lack of education regarding pain physiology and pain management strategies as well as unbalanced decision-making between clinician and patient. Thus, patients develop coping strategies to survive with pain. Current pain regimes are suboptimal at best, underpinned by the lack of clarity or a mutually agreed plan to mitigate and eradicate pain. There is a need for chronic pain management beyond pharmacological prescription. Future practices should focus on adopting a holistic, biopsychosocial approach, which includes alternative pain therapy management. In addition, advances in pain management cannot be achieved without adopting a therapeutic alliance between the clinician and patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tammy-Lee Williams
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Conran Joseph
- Division of Physiotherapy, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lena Nilsson-Wikmar
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joliana Phillips
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
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Spinal Cord Injury Patient's Physical and Psychological Care Needs at Home from Patients’ and Caregivers’ Perspectives: A Qualitative Study. ARCHIVES OF NEUROSCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/ans-123462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Limited studies have attempted to identify the care needs of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) and their professional caregivers at home and after discharge from the hospital. However, little information about these needs has led to increased physical and psychological complications and thus a reduced quality of life in SCI patients. Objectives: This study aimed to explain the experiences of patients and their caregivers regarding physical and psychological care needs at home. Method: This qualitative descriptive study was conducted on 24 SCI patients and their professional caregivers using the conventional content analysis. Data were collected through unstructured and semi-structured interviews. Purposeful sampling was continued until data saturation was reached. The conventional content analysis approach proposed by Graneheim and Lundman (continuous comparison) was used to analyze the data. Results: The age range of the participants was 29 - 48 years, with an average age of 37.8 years. Seven of the participants had paraplegia, and three of them had tetraplegia. The results of data analysis led to the extraction of two main categories, including physical and psychological care needs. Conclusions: By identifying the real needs of patients after discharge from the hospital, we emphasize the need to remove barriers to home health care services and provide more financial support to meet patients' needs. Therefore, policymakers are encouraged to use the results of this study to plan at-home patient care services.
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Mashola MK, Korkie E, Mothabeng DJ. The presence of pain in community-dwelling South African manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injury. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOTHERAPY 2022; 78:1600. [PMID: 35281780 PMCID: PMC8905372 DOI: 10.4102/sajp.v78i1.1600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pain after spinal cord injury (SCI) is common and is likely to continue throughout life with varying levels of severity. Objective To determine the presence of pain, the sociodemographic and injury profile of community-dwelling manual wheelchair users. Method This quantitative correlational study used a sociodemographic and injury profile sheet and the Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questions (DN4) questionnaire to document demographic, SCI profiles as well as pain characteristics. Pain severity was determined using the Numeric Rating Scale. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) v27 at 0.05 level of significance. Results The pain rate was 104; 85% of 122 participants and mainly in those with complete SCI (77.9%). Neuropathic pain was more common (76; 62.5%) and significantly associated (p < 0.05) with higher pain severity. Pain was mainly in one area of the body (59; 48.4%) but occurring in up to five areas. The most painful area had a mean severity of 6.7/10; was more common in the lower limbs below the injury level (48; 39.4%); and was burning in nature (40; 32.7%). Conclusions Pain after SCI is as problematic in the South African context as it is globally. With the rising SCI prevalence in the country, understanding pain and its presentation is important for holistic management of a person with SCI. Clinical implications In-depth assessment of pain should be conducted and appropriate management interventions for specific pain types be prescribed to effectively reduce pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mokgadi K Mashola
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Elzette Korkie
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Diphale J Mothabeng
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Incidence, severity and time course of pressure injuries over the first two years following discharge from hospital in people with spinal cord injuries in Bangladesh. Spinal Cord 2022; 60:348-353. [PMID: 34987177 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-021-00732-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
DESIGN Cohort study embedded in a clinical trial. SETTING Community, Bangladesh. OBJECTIVES To determine the incidence, severity and time course of pressure injuries over the first two years following discharge from hospital in people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) in Bangladesh. METHODS Participants (n = 186) were contacted by telephone 39 times and assessed face-to-face 4 to 6 times over the two years following discharge. At each point of contact the presence and severity of pressure injuries were determined using the Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing (PUSH). Survival analyses were conducted to determine the time course of development of pressure injuries and recovery from pressure injuries. Lasso regression was used to construct multivariable prediction models. RESULTS Seventy-seven participants (41%; 95% CI 34% to 49%) developed at least one pressure injury in the first two years after discharge (incidence rate 0.27 per person-year, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.34). Most pressure injuries were on the sacrum (23%). Pressure injuries took a median (IQR) of 40 (29 to 57) days to heal. The median (IQR) peak PUSH score was 11.0/17 (8.0 to 13.5). The multivariable prediction models had poor predictive properties (maximum c-statistic 0.75). CONCLUSION Pressure injuries impose a large health burden on people with SCI in Bangladesh. However, they are difficult to predict, treat and prevent. Further research is needed to identify who is at most risk and to find solutions for the treatment and prevention of pressure injuries in Bangladesh and other low-middle income countries.
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Pilusa S, Myezwa H, Potterton J. Environmental factors influencing the prevention of secondary health conditions among people with spinal cord injury, South Africa. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252280. [PMID: 34170928 PMCID: PMC8232458 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The environment where people live, work or play can influence health and disability outcomes. People with spinal cord injury are at risk for secondary health conditions, with this increasing readmission rates and decreasing quality of life. Studies on preventative care for secondary health conditions and factors influencing the prevention of secondary health conditions are scarce in low to middle-income countries. AIM To explore environmental factors influencing the prevention of secondary health conditions in people with spinal cord injury. SETTING This study was based at a public rehabilitation hospital, South Africa. METHODS Explorative qualitative design was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 therapists, 17 people with a spinal cord injury and six caregivers. The interviews were transcribed verbatim. Analysis was conducted using content analysis. RESULTS The categories that emerged included the impact of social support, inaccessible built environment and transport system, and an inefficient health care system. Sub-categories for the inefficient health care systems were: Shortage of resources, health workers lack of knowledge on prevention of secondary health conditions and inadequate patient care approach. CONCLUSION Environmental factors influencing the prevention of secondary health conditions are complex and multifactorial. When developing rehabilitation and prevention programmes, environmental factors must be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonti Pilusa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Hellen Myezwa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Joanne Potterton
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Pilusa SI, Myezwa H, Potterton J. Experiences of secondary health conditions amongst people with spinal cord injury in South Africa: A qualitative study. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOTHERAPY 2021; 77:1530. [PMID: 33937547 PMCID: PMC8063775 DOI: 10.4102/sajp.v77i1.1530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Secondary health conditions (SHCs) such as pain, pressure sores, sexual problems, bowel and bladder problems are prevalent throughout the lifespan of people with spinal cord injury (SCI). Studies have reported that SHCs decrease life expectancy and increase health care costs. Studies on the lived experience of SHCs are, however, limited. OBJECTIVES To explore the experiences of SHCs amongst people with SCI in a public rehabilitation hospital in South Africa. METHOD Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with people with SCI from August 2018 to July 2019. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a content analysis approach. RESULTS Seventeen people with SCI were interviewed. Participants experienced a range of SHCs. The most common experienced SHC was pain (94%). The main theme that emerged from the analysis was 'the impact of secondary health conditions on health and well-being'. The categories linked to the impact were SHCs co-occurrence and how SHCs limit function, restrict participation, affect mental health and disrupt lives. CONCLUSION We found that SHCs were enormously impactful on our participants' lives and health, as illustrated by their stories of fear, embarrassment and shame. Understanding people with SCI experiences of SHCs can enhance communication between people with SCI and health professionals and may help develop prevention strategies. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS To enhance patient-centred care, health professionals are encouraged to actively listen to patients' experiences of illness and the impact on health and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonti I Pilusa
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, South Africa
| | - Hellen Myezwa
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, South Africa
| | - Joanne Potterton
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, South Africa
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