Associations between disability-management self-efficacy, participation and life satisfaction in people with long-standing spinal cord injury

Psychological screening of significant others during spinal cord injury rehabilitation

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

Determine the course of burden and psychological distress of significant others (SOs) during initial spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation and to predict the caregiver's burden at discharge with characteristics of SOs and persons with SCI (PSCIs) at the start of rehabilitation.

SETTING

Rehabilitation center Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

METHODS

All PSCIs admitted for initial rehabilitation between October 2020 and December 2022 were included. One of their SOs were asked to complete a set of screening questionnaires, collected in our routine context of care.

RESULTS

A total of 181 PSCIs (62% male, average age 60 years, 80% incomplete SCI, 60% paraplegia and 32 days after injury) and 158 SOs (40% male, average age 57 years) were screened at admission, and 145 and 93 at discharge, respectively. For SOs, the average caregiver's burden and feelings of depression and anxiety did not change during admission. The caregiver's burden score at discharge was best predicted by the burden score at admission, explaining 20% (P < 0.001) of the variance. An additional 13% (P = 0.02) of the variance was explained by other SO and PSCI variables gathered in this study.

CONCLUSION

The caregiver's burden in this group of SOs during rehabilitation, was higher than that of a representative group in the chronic phase. On both assessments, around 20% scored above the cutoff. Scores of psychological distress are comparable to former studies. Standard screening of SOs during initial SCI rehabilitation is important to help the interdisciplinary team identify SOs at risk, and target their treatment during inpatient rehabilitation.

Baseline health-related self-efficacy for individuals following stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injury prior to enrollment in a weight-loss intervention

PURPOSE

To examine health-related self-efficacy for individuals following acquired brain or spinal cord injury prior to enrollment in a weight-loss intervention and associations with demographics, injury characteristics, and additional physiologic variables.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data for community-dwelling adults following stroke (CVA), traumatic brain injury (TBI), or spinal cord injury (SCI) across three disability-adapted weight-loss interventions.

RESULTS

Overall results suggest a significant difference between injury type and self-efficacy as measured by the Self Rated Abilities for Health Practices (SRAHP) scale. On average, individuals with SCI had the lowest overall perceived self-efficacy of the three groups (11.2-unit difference; (CI: -17.4, -5.0), followed by those with TBI (9.5-unit difference; (CI: -16.7, -2.4). There were also differences between groups in age, number of household members, time since injury, sex, race, marital status, physiological measures, and employment status.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that individuals with different disabilities following neurological injuries have different baseline perceptions in their ability to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Health interventions should be tailored for these groups based on disability-specific barriers and should include components to enhance health-related self-efficacy to address weight management among these populations.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONEvidence suggests that health-related self-efficacy may differ following different injury types and level of disability may impact one's ability to maintain health-related behaviorsResults suggest that individuals with a spinal cord injury may have different baseline perceptions of self-efficacy related to their ability to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly compared to those with a traumatic brain injury or stroke.Health interventions should be tailored to encompass disability-specific barriers which may impact an individual's health-related self-efficacy.

Social participation in adults with cerebral palsy: a systematic review of the evidence-base

PURPOSE

To identify and synthesise the current evidence on social participation in adults with cerebral palsy (CP).

METHODS

Four databases (PubMed, CINAHL Plus, PsycINFO, Web of Science) were systematically searched between December 2021 and February 2022. Pre-specified eligibility criteria were applied to all identified studies resulting in the inclusion of 16 articles. Data extraction was performed using a standardised tool and quality appraisal was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A narrative synthesis approach was taken for data analysis.

RESULTS

The 16 included studies were rated as high (n = 11) and medium quality (n = 5). Numbers of participants included in the studies ranged from 7 to 335. Definitions of social participation were discussed. Common themes were identified: the impact of home and work environments on social participation, the importance of age-appropriate support and interventions, and the impact of limited autonomy on social participation.

CONCLUSIONS

Adults with CP experience limited social participation due to lack of appropriate support in childhood, issues across the lifespan including physical limitations when ageing, and factors such as societal expectations and inaccessible environments which limit opportunities for autonomy. Social participation may be improved by supporting families to provide opportunities in childhood, providing timely interventions, and by enhancing autonomy.

Psychological capital research in HEIs: Bibliometric analysis of current and future trends

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the literature on psychological capital (PsyCap) within higher education institutions (HEIs). Its main objective is to offer an encompassing perspective on this field's current state and potential developments. To achieve this, the study examines present research trends and predicts future directions using a bibliometric approach. A total of 412 journal articles were gathered from the Web of Science database. The analysis identifies influential publications, outlines the knowledge structure, and forecasts future trends through bibliographic coupling and co-word analyses. The bibliographic coupling revealed five distinct clusters, while the co-word analysis identified four clusters. Despite the growing significance of PsyCap research in HEIs, there remains a need for greater academic efforts to comprehend the research landscape fully. This paper provides valuable insights into the expanding area of PsyCap research within HEIs. In conclusion, the study sheds light on the extensive research conducted on PsyCap in the context of HEIs and offers insights into its potential for further growth.

The Swedish version of the Moorong Self-Efficacy Scale (s-MSES) - translation process and psychometric properties in a community setting

STUDY DESIGN

Psychometric study.

OBJECTIVES

To i) describe the translation process and ii) explore the data completeness, targeting, reliability and aspects of validity of the Swedish version of Moorong Self-Efficacy Scale (s-MSES).

SETTINGS

Community rehabilitation program.

METHODS

Ninety-two program participants and 42 peer mentors with spinal cord injury (SCI) in Active Rehabilitation training programs (enrolled in the International Project for the Evaluation of activE Rehabilitation (Inter-PEER)) were included. The s-MSES was completed online, once for program participants and twice for peer mentors. The translation process was based on guidelines and involved researchers, clinicians and consumers.

RESULTS

Minor linguistic adaptations were made. Ninety-one percent obtained a total score. As expected, peer mentors exhibited ceiling effects in all subscales. Cronbach´s alpha for the total scale was 0.92 (subscales 0.74-0.83). The intraclass correlation coefficient was excellent for the total and subscale scores (0.78-0.91). The s-MSES exhibited sensitivity to changes and there were no systematic changes between evaluation points. The s-MSES correlated significantly and positively with life satisfaction and resilience, and negatively with depression/anxiety.

CONCLUSION

The s-MSES was translated through a rigorous, consumer-involved process ensuring accurate linguistic translation and cultural adaptation. Our results support the data completeness, targeting, reliability and aspects of validity of the s-MSES. The s-MSES can thus be considered suitable to assess self-efficacy in persons with SCI in community rehabilitation settings. The now available Swedish version of the MSES will facilitate national research, clinical evaluations and international comparisons.

SPONSORSHIP

Not applicable.

Psychological Screening, Standards and Spinal Cord Injury: Introducing Change in NHS England Commissioned Services

Psychologist resourcing across the United Kingdom (UK) spinal cord injury centres (SCICs) varies considerably, which has detrimentally impacted standardising service provision for people with spinal cord injuries/disorders (PwSCI/D) compared with other nations. This paper presents the outcome of a project involving the Spinal Cord Injury Psychology Advisory Group (SCIPAG) and NHS England Clinical Reference Group/SCI transformation groups to agree upon screening and standards and shares data from the National Spinal Injuries Centre (NSIC) and the Yorkshire and Midlands Regional SCICs. Inpatients completed the GAD-7, the PHQ-9, and the short form of the Appraisals of DisAbility: Primary and Secondary Scale (ADAPSSsf), assessing adjustment. A total of 646 participants were included, with 43% scoring above the clinical threshold on at least one of the measures on admission. A subset of 272 participants also completed discharge measures and 42% remained above the threshold on discharge, demonstrating sustained psychological need. This paper provides support for services to move to a screen-and-assessment model supplemented by referral options for those with changing needs or who present with difficulties outside the remit of screening. The findings also support the efficacy of universal screening across the system and consideration of screening and standards for psychological care by the wider psychology community.

Evaluating a pilot community-based self-management program for adults with spinal cord injury

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate outcomes and perceptions of participating in a pilot spinal cord injury (SCI) specific community-based self-management program.

DESIGN

A program evaluation conducted through the review of retrospective data.

SETTING

An outpatient vocational rehabilitation service in Singapore.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults with SCI who completed a self-management intervention.

INTERVENTION

A self-management educational program was delivered by healthcare professionals with involvement of peer mentors. Up to six self-selected topics were covered using a multi-modal teaching approach.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Retrospective data collected at baseline, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up were analyzed. Outcome measures included the University of Washington Self-Efficacy scale (UW-SES), SCI Secondary Conditions Scale (SCI-SCS), Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ), and employment. Post-program survey findings were also reviewed.

RESULTS

Data from fifteen participants revealed positive changes over time for the UW-SES (η² = .27), SCI-SCS (η² = .21), and CIQ (η² = .23). Self-efficacy scores increased from baseline to post-intervention with a large effect size (Hedge's g = 0.89), and from baseline to follow-up with a medium effect size (Hedge's g = 0.50). Participants reported overall perceived benefit and satisfaction with the program's design and relevance. They valued access to useful information, effective instructional methods, program customization, and participant empowerment and affirmation. Suggestions for program refinement included: more peer support, psycho-emotional support, and continued program adaptability and accessibility.

CONCLUSION

A SCI-specific community-based self-management program was associated with short-term improvements in self-efficacy and was well-received. Further research is required to determine its effectiveness, essential program features that promote successful outcomes, and cost-effectiveness of program implementation.

Coping Strategies of Women With Long-Term Spinal Cord Injury: The Role of Beliefs About the World, Self-Efficacy, and Disability

The present study aimed to investigate the indirect effect of appraisal of disability on the relationship between basic hope and coping strategies in women with long-term spinal cord injury (SCI), taking into account the moderating role of general self-efficacy. A cross-sectional study with 187 women with paraplegia was conducted. Main outcome measures, the Coping Orientations to Problems Experienced (COPE), the Basic Hope Inventory (BHI), Appraisals of Disability Primary and Secondary Scale (ADAPSS), and General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), were used. Our study showed that the strategies most commonly used by participants are seeking emotional support, religion, and acceptance. More than 45% of the respondents reveal average levels of basic hope, 58.82% reveal high levels of general self-efficacy, and most of them assessed their disability as determined resilience while noticing its negative aspects. The indirect effect of disability appraisal on the relationship between basic hope and coping strategies (denial, focus on emotions, seeking emotional support, religion, and acceptance) was confirmed. The moderating role of general self-efficacy in this analysis of mediating was also confirmed. General self-efficacy plays a significant role in explaining the relationship between basic hope and coping strategies mediated by appraisals of disability in women with long-term SCI.

Application and progress of three-dimensional bioprinting in spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a central nervous system disorder that can lead to sensory and motor dysfunction, which can seriously increase pressure and economic burden on families and societies. The current SCI treatment is mainly to stabilize the spine, prevent secondary damage, and control inflammation. Drug treatment is limited to early, large-scale use of steroids to reduce the effects of edema after SCI. In short, there is no direct treatment for SCI. Recent 3D bioprinting development provides a new solution for SCI treatment: a series of spinal cord bionic scaffolds are being developed to improve spinal cord function after injury. This paper reviews the pathophysiological characteristics of SCI, current treatment methods, and the progress of 3D bioprinting in SCI. Finally, its challenges and prospects in SCI treatment are summarized.

Learning self-care skills after spinal cord injury: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

People with a recent spinal cord injury (SCI) often follow intensive rehabilitation. Learning appropriate self-care, deal with their impairments and prevent secondary health conditions (SHCs), is highly important during rehabilitation. To date it is not clear how self-care skills are taught to people with SCI. The objective of this study was to understand how people with SCI experienced the learning of appropriate self-care skills during inpatient rehabilitation, including the role of the rehabilitation team.

METHODS

Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 people with SCI, recently discharged from initial inpatient rehabilitation. Interviews were audio-taped, transcribed and analyzed thematically.

RESULTS

Two main themes and seven sub-themes were identified. Participants stated that the contribution of the rehabilitation team to learning self-care, including prevention of SHCs, was mostly made by optimizing opportunities to learn through experience. For preventing SHCs, education and lessons learned from the professionals during therapy and the formal educational program, was experienced as especially important. Further, the motivational attitude of the professionals which participants found stimulating and was based on respect, combined with their positive contribution as one team, were seen as essentials elements for learning appropriate self-care. However participants did not recognize the contribution of the nursing staff as part of their rehabilitation, although it was seen as very important. An important aspect of the participants' own contribution was challenging oneself to learn self-care. This was done in different ways by the participants. Further, their own mental adjustment was considered important in the learning process. The gaining of confidence was by most participants seen as personal characteristic, although they also recognized the importance of the team effort and the experiences they underwent.

CONCLUSIONS

Learning appropriate self-care was mostly done through experience, by challenging themselves, and making use of the opportunities given by the members of the rehabilitation team. The same strategies used by the rehabilitation team to teach people with SCI to perform appropriate self-care, were also helpful for the participants to gain confidence. Explicit attention for self-care training as an important goal in SCI rehabilitation may strengthen the nursing staff's role and stimulate interdisciplinary working.

Life Satisfaction in Individuals With Long-Term Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: An Investigation of Associated Biopsychosocial Factors

OBJECTIVE

To investigate relationships between self-reported biological, psychological, and social factors and global, vocational, and home life satisfaction in individuals with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) an average of more than 30 years postinjury.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional analyses of self-report assessment data.

SETTING

Specialty and university hospitals in the southeastern and midwestern United States.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals with a history of traumatic SCI (n=546) who responded to the most recent data collection period of the SCI Longitudinal Aging Study (2018-2019) and who were at least 2 years postinjury and at least 18 years or older at initial study enrollment.

INTERVENTIONS

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Global life satisfaction, home life satisfaction, and vocational life satisfaction as measured by the Life Situation Questionnaire-Revised.

RESULTS

Taken together, the biopsychosocial variables explained 55.1% of the variance in global life satisfaction. Less severe depressive symptoms, greater emotional social support, and greater instrumental social support were significantly associated with greater global life satisfaction. Together, the independent variables explained 50.7% of the variance in home life satisfaction. Being in a relationship, having less severe depressive symptoms, having greater emotional social support, and having greater instrumental social support were significantly associated with home life satisfaction. Together, the independent variables explained 44.8% of the variance in vocational satisfaction. Being White, non-Hispanic, having more years of education, being in a relationship, having less severe depressive symptoms, and having greater emotional social support were significantly associated with greater vocational satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

These results support the need to assess psychological symptoms and available social support as potential modifiable factors related to several domains of life satisfaction in this aging population. Improving psychological symptoms and strengthening available social support may relate to improved life satisfaction.

Cross-cultural and psychometric property assessment of the Moorong Self-Efficacy Scale in Chinese patients with spinal cord injury

PURPOSE

To translate the Moorong Self-Efficacy Scale (MSES) into Chinese and to examine its reliability and validity in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study design was employed. The MSES was translated into Chinese by forward- and back-translation and its psychometric properties were examined among 176 patients with SCI recruited from four rehabilitation centers in China using convenience sampling.

RESULTS

In this study, all 176 patients were aged from 18 to 90 years old with an average of 39.51 ± 14.07. The content validity index of the scale was 0.99. Principal components analysis with varimax orthogonal rotation was used. Three factors were extracted accounting for 39.083%, 11.149%, and 8.391% of the total variance and labeled as general self-efficacy (eight items), social self-efficacy (five items), and self-management self-efficacy (three items). Confirmatory factor analysis showed acceptable fit compared with previous studies. Pearson's correlation coefficient between the total scores of the MSES and the General Self-Efficacy Scale was 0.660 (p < 0.001). Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.892 for total items and 0.862, 0.817, and 0.739 for the three factors. The interclass correlation coefficients between the pretest and retest were 0.859 (0.733-0.925) for the total score.

CONCLUSIONS

The Chinese version of the MSES is reliable and valid, suggesting that it is suitable for evaluating self-efficacy of Chinese patients with SCI.Implications for rehabilitationThe satisfactory reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the Moorong Self-Efficacy Scale (MSES) confirmed its suitability as a tool to measure self-efficacy among Chinese patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).The Chinese version of the MSES could be used to reflect the important and specific aspects of self-efficacy in patients with SCI such as self-care, social interaction, and daily activities, and to help medical stuff giving more targeted intervention.

Trajectories of Self-Efficacy, Depressed Mood, and Anxiety From Admission to Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation to 1 Year After Discharge

OBJECTIVE

Self-efficacy (SE) is an important determinant for the psychological adjustment of people with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, little is known about the course of SE during inpatient rehabilitation up to 1 year after discharge. The aim of this study was to determine latent trajectory classes of SE, depressive mood, and anxiety in people with SCI, as well as the interrelationships between these trajectories.

DESIGN

Longitudinal inception cohort study.

SETTING

Eight specialized SCI rehabilitation centers.

PARTICIPANTS

The participants (N=268) were mainly men 183 of 268 (68.3%) with a mean age of 55.6 years. Almost half had a traumatic SCI 135 of 268 (50.4%) and tetraplegia (53.7%), and the minority had a motor complete SCI (32.2%).

INTERVENTIONS

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

SE was measured using the University of Washington Self-Efficacy Scale. In addition, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was used to asses distress and perform dual trajectory modeling analyses.

RESULTS

Three trajectories of SE, indicating low, middle, and high SE, could be distinguished. Furthermore, a 2-class trajectory solution for depressive mood and a 4-class solution for anxiety were found to be most suitable. All trajectories were stable over time. Developmental connections between SE and depressive mood and between SE and anxiety were revealed. In particular, participants who adjusted well, reporting low scores on depressive mood and anxiety, could be identified by their high SE scores. However, the group of participants with high depressive mood scores and anxiety scores could not always be identified based on their SE trajectory.

CONCLUSIONS

In accordance with our hypotheses, distinct trajectories of SE, depressive mood, and anxiety were identified and high probabilities that SE trajectories were interrelated to the trajectories from depressive mood and anxiety were confirmed. Concurrent screening for SE and distress might best detect people at risk for adjustment problems.

Effects of App-Based Transitional Care on the Self-Efficacy and Quality of Life of Patients With Spinal Cord Injury in China: Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Spinal cord injury (SCI) severely impairs the physical and mental health of patients, decreasing their self-efficacy in coping with daily life and quality of life (QOL). In China, a large gap remains between the complex long-term health needs of SCI patients and the current community care system. With the prevalence of mobile terminals, the usage of mobile health apps has the potential to fill this gap by extending qualified medical resources to the families of SCI patients. Our team developed the app Together for the transitional care of home-dwelling SCI patients in China.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of app-based transitional care on the self-efficacy and QOL of SCI patients.

METHODS

Through a three-round Delphi process, an Android app was designed. Both medical staff and patients could access the app. Medical staff used it for providing remote transitional care to SCI patients. Patients used it to view transitional care time and send messages to medical staff. Thereafter, a multicenter and assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted. Participants (n=98) who had SCI and lived at home following discharge were recruited and randomly assigned to a study group (n=49) and control group (n=49) using a randomized number list in four research centers. Patients in both groups received systematic discharge education before discharge. The study group received five follow-ups conducted by trained nurses through the app, which had four core functions, namely remote assessment, health education, interdisciplinary referral, and patient interaction, at weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 following discharge. The control group received a routine telephone follow-up conducted by nurses at week 12 following discharge. The outcome measures were the Moorong Self-Efficacy Scale (MSES) and 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) scores. Data were collected before discharge (T0) and at weeks 12 (T1) and 24 following discharge (T2). Differences between the groups were tested by repeated measures analysis of variance and simple effect analysis.

RESULTS

After the follow-up, the total MSES scores in the study group improved over time (T0=67.80, T1=71.90, and T2=76.29) and were higher than those in the control group (T2=64.49) at 24 weeks following discharge (simple effect analysis: F1=8.506, P=.004). Regarding the total SF-36 score, although it was higher in patients from the study group (T2=65.36) than those from the control group (T2=58.77) at 24 weeks following discharge, only time effects were significant (F2,95=6.671, P=.002) and neither the group effects nor the interaction effects influenced the change in QOL (group effects: F1,96=0.082, P=.78; interaction effects: F2,95=3.059, P=.052).

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirmed that app-based transitional care improves the self-efficacy of SCI patients. Nevertheless, QOL improvement is not yet evident. Future investigations with larger sample sizes and longer observation periods are warranted to further verify the effects.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR-IPR-17012317; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=19828.

Predictors of Self-Efficacy Among People With Spinal Cord Injury During Inpatient Rehabilitation: A Cross-Sectional Study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the predictors of self-efficacy among Chinese people with spinal cord injury (SCI).

DESIGN

A cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational design was adopted.

METHODS

121 participants were recruited from two rehabilitation hospitals in Shaanxi, China, from August 2016 to June 2017. The Moorong Self-Efficacy Scale was used to assess participants' self-efficacy levels. Participants' sociodemographic or clinical characteristics, functional independence, coping ability (measured using the Brief Coping Orientations to Problems Experienced Inventory), and social support (measured using the Six-item Social Support Questionnaire) were assessed as potential predictors of self-efficacy. A multiple linear regression model was conducted to identify the factors predicting self-efficacy score.

RESULTS

The mean age of the participants was 41 (SD 11.9) years and 90% were male. Participants' mean self-efficacy score was 53.9 (SD 15.7). Multiple linear regression results indicated that injury type (i.e., paraplegia or tetraplegia; β = 0.290, p < .001) and adaptive coping (β = 0.561, p < .001) were significant predictors, accounting for 62% of the variance in self-efficacy scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings imply that psychosocial interventions that target enhancing various adaptive coping strategies could have positive effects on self-efficacy in people with SCI.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Injury type and adaptive coping ability are two key factors related to patients' self-efficacy post-SCI. Psychosocial interventions that target enhancing various adaptive coping strategies could have positive effects on self-efficacy in people with SCI.

Quality of life, self-esteem, self-efficacy and social participation of persons living with mobility-related disability using mobility aids devices within select Nigerian communities

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Disability has gained further global attention as a result of the integration of persons with disabilities into the societies. However, the association among quality of life (QoL), self-esteem (SE), self-efficacy (SEf) and social participation (SP) is inconclusive. This study was aimed to investigate the correlation among QoL, SE, SEf and SP in people living with mobility-related disability using mobility aid devices (MADs) in some selected communities of Enugu State.

METHODS

This cross-sectional survey involved 200 consenting participants (mean age = 37.47 ± 13.00 years) purposively recruited from four different sampled communities who have community-based rehabilitation (CBR) services. Quality of life (QoL), SE, SEf and SP of participants were explored using 36-item Short Form Survey, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, General Self-Efficacy Scale and Participation Scale respectively. Data obtained was summarised using frequency counts, mean, standard deviation and analysed using spearman's Rank Order Correlation, Mann Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests.

RESULTS

The mean QoL, SEf, SE, and SP of the participants are 55.06 ± 10.67, 25.00 ± 5.57, 16.36 ± 4.33 and 35.60 ± 13.50 respectively, which imply moderate QoL and SEf, high SE and severe restricted participation. QoL, SEf, SE, and SP significantly correlated with one another (p < 0.05). There was no significant influence of gender and occupational status of the participants on their QoL, SE, SEf and SP (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Persons living with mobility-related disabilities have moderate QoL and SEf, high self-esteem and severe restriction in SP. QoL, SEf, SE, and SP correlated with one another. The possibility of improving other constructs by targeting one can be explored in disability rehabilitation.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThe increasing prevalence of disability presented the need to study four constructs of well-being (Quality of Life, Self-esteem, Self-efficacy and Social participation).The perception of one's status and position in life can be negatively impacted upon by a mobility-related disability.Social participation may improve satisfaction and quality of life, which in turn could lead to better self-esteem and self-efficacy.

Associations between post-traumatic growth and wisdom in people with long-term paraplegia - the role of disability appraisals and participation

PURPOSE

The number of people with long-term spinal cord injury (SCI) is growing but our knowledge about their successful functioning is still limited. The goal of this study was to investigate the correlations between posttraumatic growth (PTG) and wisdom in people with long-term paraplegia, exploring the mediating effect of disability appraisals, and participation/autonomy (P/A).

METHODS

One-hundred and sixty-six persons with paraplegia completed a set of questionnaires, which included: The three-dimensional Wisdom Scale; The Post-traumatic Growth Inventory; Appraisals of Disability Primary and Secondary Scale; Impact on Participation and Autonomy Questionnaire. Mediation was tested using bootstrapping and a multiple mediation model with two mediators.

RESULTS

Positive and significant correlations between PTG, disability appraisals (as determined resilience), P/A, and wisdom were found. PTG is associated with wisdom when disability appraisals and P/A are mediators. Higher PTG was related to higher determined resilience and smaller restrictions in participation, both of which were associated with higher wisdom.

CONCLUSIONS

The relationship between PTG and wisdom is complex and indirect in people with long-term paraplegia. The mediating variables of disability appraisals and P/A explained the variance in PTG, with P/A playing a more significant role. Findings suggest that long-term SCI may correlate with experiencing high levels of PTG and wisdom, and more positive disability appraisals.Implications for rehabilitationPTG is associated with life wisdom in people with long-term SCI, with a significant contribution of disability appraisal and P/A.Therapists can increase these people's awareness about the possibility of experiencing PTG and maintaining positive changes, despite long-term SCI.Therapists can support people with long-term SCI in maintaining or extending the possibilities of participation and autonomous decision-making about their daily activities, which in consequence may be important for increasing their life wisdom.

Pilot Study of a Self-Management Program for Parents With Spinal Cord Injury or Disease

IMPORTANCE

This study lays the groundwork for a self-management program run by occupational therapy practitioners for parents with spinal cord injury or disease (SCI/D).

OBJECTIVE

To develop and implement the Parenting Self-Management Program with people with SCI/D and evaluate the potential impact on knowledge, self-efficacy, and participation.

DESIGN

A mixed-methods approach was used to develop (Phase 1) and implement and evaluate (Phase 2) a pilot group intervention for parents with SCI/D.

SETTING

Community-based occupational therapy settings.

PARTICIPANTS

Phase 1 participants were professionals working in the field of disability and SCI/D (n = 11) and experienced parents with SCI/D (n = 9). Phase 2 participants were people with SCI/D who were newly injured or inexperienced in parenting (n = 10). All participants were paid volunteers.

INTERVENTION

The 4-wk Parenting Self-Management Program was piloted with 10 parents with SCI/D. Participants attended a weekly program with other parents with SCI/D led by occupational therapists in which they received parenting resources and presentations and set weekly goals.

OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The General Self-Efficacy Scale, a modified version of the Participation Survey/Mobility, and open-ended questions regarding parents' participation in parenting tasks were administered during Phase 2.

RESULTS

Significant increases (p < .05) in perceived knowledge were found for the topics of emergency preparedness, home modifications, adapted equipment, fatigue management, pain management, and community resources among Phase 2 participants.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

A self-management approach combined with pertinent resources for parents with SCI/D yielded positive outcomes.

WHAT THIS ARTICLE ADDS

This research demonstrates that a self-management structure for a specific population (people with SCI/D) in combination with a targeted occupation (parenting) and delivered through group occupational therapy services, improved client outcomes.

Enhancing our conceptual understanding of state and trait self-efficacy by correlational analysis of four self-efficacy scales in people with spinal cord injury

Background

Self-efficacy is an important determinant of adjustment following spinal cord injury. Self-efficacy is defined as the belief that one can successfully execute behavior required to produce the desired outcomes. In its original conceptualization, self-efficacy refers to the confidence that people have in their ability to accomplish specific tasks and behaviors within a specific context. Over the years these situation specific aspects have been unconfined and multiple constructs of self-efficacy have been proposed. The most common is a division in trait and state self-efficacy. Another used division that is utilized is between general, domain-specific and task-specific self-efficacy. The scientific support for these constructs is to date still unclear. The objective of this study was to enhance the understanding of the self-efficacy construct by comparing four self-efficacy scales designed to measure three aspects of self-efficacy (general versus domain-specific versus task-specific) in people with spinal cord injury.

Methods

Dutch and Australian adults with spinal cord injury (N = 140) completed four frequently used self-efficacy scales; the Moorong Self-efficacy Scale, General Self-efficacy Scale, University of Washington Self-efficacy Scale and a Self-care Self-efficacy Scale approximately 6 months after their inpatient rehabilitation. Pearson correlations examined inter-relationships between the scales.

Results

Hypothesized strong correlations between scales measuring similar aspects of self-efficacy were found (correlations 0.50–0.65). However, the hypothesized weak to moderate correlations between scales measuring diverging aspects of self-efficacy were only partly found (correlations 0.31–0.74), with 7 out of 12 correlations being strong instead of moderate.

Conclusions

The expected distinctions between the three aspects of self-efficacy was not demonstrated. All four scales measure a common latent construct, most likely general self-efficacy aspects. Further research is necessary to find ways to improve the measurement of domain-specific and task-specific aspects of SE, so that they are sensitive enough to capture change over time, and thus enhance clinical outcomes of people with SCI as they adjust to their disability.

Independent Association of Erectile Dysfunction and Low Testosterone Levels With Life Dissatisfaction in Men With Chronic Spinal Cord Injury

BACKGROUND

The loss of global functional independence, along with bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunctions, may contribute to psychological distress and life dissatisfaction after spinal cord injury (SCI).

AIM

To explore the relationship of erectile function and androgenic status with life satisfaction, independently from confounders recognizable in spinal cord-injured men.

METHODS

100 consecutive men (49 ± 17 years) admitted to a rehabilitation program because of chronic SCI (≥1 year) underwent clinical/biochemical evaluations, including the assessment of life and sexual satisfaction using the Life-Satisfaction Questionnaire-9 (LiSat-9), erectile function using the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5), global and bowel-bladder functional independence using the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) and measurement of total testosterone (TT) levels. The free testosterone level was calculated using the Vermeulen formula.

OUTCOMES

The outcomes include the relationship between sexual health and life satisfaction in men with SCI.

RESULTS

A LiSat-9 score <4, suggestive for life dissatisfaction, was exhibited by 49% of men. When compared with the life-satisfied group, a significantly higher percentage of them had sexual dissatisfaction and erectile dysfunction (ED); they also exhibited significantly lower levels of TT and calculated free testosterone (cFT) and a more severe impairment of bowel-bladder function. The life satisfaction degree correlated with sexual satisfaction degree, IIEF-5 score, TT, cFT, and bowel-bladder function degree. At the logistic regression model, including sexual LiSat-9 subscore and bowel-bladder SCIM subscore, only the former exhibited a significant negative association with life dissatisfaction. In a further logistic regression model, including the putative key determinants of sexual satisfaction, erectile function, and cFT levels, a higher odd of life dissatisfaction was independently associated both with a lower IIEF-5 score (OR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.88, 0.98) and lower cFT levels (OR: 0.98; 95% CI: 0.98, 0.99).

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

In men with chronic SCI, assessment of erectile function and testosterone levels can help to predict life satisfaction.

STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS

This is the first demonstration of the independent association of androgen deficiency and ED with life satisfaction in men with SCI. Prospective studies are warranted to clarify the cause-effect relationships.

CONCLUSIONS

In men with SCI, ED and low testosterone levels exhibit a significant independent association with life dissatisfaction; longitudinal intervention studies could explore possible effects of their treatment in improving sexual and life satisfaction in this population. D'Andrea S, Minaldi E, Castellini C, et al. Independent Association of Erectile Dysfunction and Low Testosterone Levels With Life Dissatisfaction in Men With Chronic Spinal Cord Injury. J Sex Med 2020;17:911-918.

Active Rehabilitation for persons with spinal cord injury in Botswana - effects of a community peer-based programme

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort study with a repeated measures analysis.

OBJECTIVES

To measure the effects of the Active Rehabilitation (AR) training programme for community-dwelling individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) in Botswana on physical independence, wheelchair mobility, self-efficacy, life satisfaction, level of physical activity and community participation.

SETTING

The inaugural AR training programme in Botswana, a community peer-based programme for people with SCI. The 10-day residential programme in Botswana was led by an international team of peer mentors and health professionals.

METHODS

Participants with SCI (on average 4 years after injury) completed a survey comprising a battery of standardised outcome measures at three timepoints: at the start, on completion and at 5 months after the programme (n = 14). Participants also completed a practical wheelchair skills test at start and completion of the programme (n = 17).

RESULTS

Participants improved in the mobility subscale of the Spinal Cord Independence Measure Self Report on completion (p = 0.011, d = 0.85) and at 5-month follow-up (p = 0.005, d = 0.93) as compared to baseline. They also achieved moderate improvement in self-efficacy to manage their condition (physical function domain of Moorong Self-Efficacy Scale) and large improvements in wheelchair mobility as assessed through the Queensland Evaluation of Wheelchair Skills test and the Wheelchair Skills Test Questionnaire. All positive results were retained at 5-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings indicate that the peer-based programme AR can play an important role in promoting physical independence, wheelchair mobility and injury-management self-efficacy in community-dwelling individuals with SCI in Botswana.

Factors associated with disease self-efficacy in individuals aging with a disability

Self-management of a disability consists of treatment adherence, obtaining information about the disease and treatment options, caring for oneself, participating in decisions, and maintaining social relationships and emotional balance. Understanding and measuring an individual's beliefs about their ability to successfully self-manage and live well with a disability allows researchers and clinicians to better target interventions aimed at increasing disability management self-efficacy (DMSE). The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between demographic and clinical indicators, and self-efficacy for DMSE in individuals with chronic physical conditions. Adults (N = 815) with muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, or post-polio syndrome completed a self-report mailed survey assessing DMSE, perceived social support, depression symptoms, resilience, fatigue, pain interference, satisfaction with participation in social roles, physical function, and demographics. A cross-sectional regression model was used to examine the associations between the clinical and demographic factors, and DMSE. The model explained 67% of the variance in DMSE. Satisfaction with participation in social roles, resilience, pain interference, social support, and fatigue were statistically significant. Better social functioning, more resilience, and less pain and fatigue were most strongly associated with DMSE. Interventions aimed at increasing DMSE should include strategies for improving social participation.

Effects of family group conferences among high-risk patients of chronic disability and their significant others: study protocol for a multicentre controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Many patients and family members experience a large gap between the protected environment during inpatient medical rehabilitation and life in the community after discharge. They feel insufficiently prepared to cope with the consequences of their disability in daily life. This study protocol describes the design measuring the effectiveness and implementation of family group conferences on the empowerment of patients with a high risk of chronic disability and their significant others.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A multicentre controlled trial will be carried out in 12 rehabilitation centres in the Netherlands. A total of 328 clinically admitted patients will participate (≥18 years, diagnosed with acquired brain injury, spinal cord injury or leg amputation), and their significant others will be included. During three family group conferences, supported by the social worker, the patient, significant other and their social network will be stimulated in collaboration, to set up participation goals, determine the needed help and make a concrete action plan. Self-reported questionnaires will be collected at baseline, clinical discharge, and 3 months and 6 months following clinical discharge. Empowerment as the primary outcome is operationalised as self-efficacy and participation. Secondary outcome measures are psychological (eg, coping, neuroticism) and environmental (eg, family functioning, social support) factors. This is the first controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of family group conferences in rehabilitation medicine among adult patients and their significant others, providing us with knowledge in improving rehabilitation care.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has been approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the University Medical Center Utrecht (number 15-617/C). The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented in local, national and international conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NTR5742; Pre-results.

Self-Management and Self-Efficacy in Patients With Acute Spinal Cord Injuries: Protocol for a Longitudinal Cohort Study

Background

People with recently acquired spinal cord injury (SCI) experience changes in physical, social and psychological aspects of their lives. In the last decades, attention has grown for aspects of self-management and self-efficacy in SCI research. However, we still do not know what the self-management and self-efficacy outcomes of first rehabilitation are and whether utilizing these skills may prevent secondary health conditions (SHCs) and increase participation and psychological adjustment early after SCI.

Objective

To describe the course and determinants of self-management and self-efficacy during and after first SCI rehabilitation; and to determine theory-based associations between self-management and self-efficacy with SHCs, participation and psychological adjustment.

Methods

Multicenter prospective longitudinal cohort study. All people with a newly acquired SCI admitted to one of the 8 specialized SCI rehabilitation centers in the Netherlands will be considered for inclusion in this study. Main assessments will take place during the first and last week of admission and 3, 6 and 12 months after discharge. The target sample is 250 participants. The primary outcomes are self-management (knowledge and execution of self-care) and self-efficacy (confidence in the ability to manage the consequences of SCI and of self-care). Secondary outcome measures are SHCs, participation and psychological adjustment to SCI.

Results

The first results with the complete set of data are expected in June 2019.

Conclusions

This protocol describes the SELF-SCI cohort study investigating self-management and self-efficacy of initial inpatient SCI rehabilitation. Second, associations will be investigated with SHCs, participation and psychological adjustment early after onset of SCI, until 1 year after discharge. The results will be used to test theories about motivation to perform health-promoting behaviors and adjustment to SCI.