International Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Open Access
ISSN: 2329-9096
ISSN: 2329-9096
Kathryn Nicholson Perry
Australia
Research Article
A Clinical Perspective on the Need for Psychosocial Care Guidelines in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation
Author(s): James Middleton, Kathryn Nicholson Perry and Ashley CraigJames Middleton, Kathryn Nicholson Perry and Ashley Craig
Objective: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a catastrophic physical injury presenting substantial obstacles to adjustment in the long-term, often being associated with additional challenges, including traumatic brain injury, frequent hospitalization, substance abuse, co-morbid psychiatric conditions, chronic pain and fatigue, social discrimination and poor employment prospects. Methods: In an effort to improve rehabilitation and outcomes for people with SCI in the state of NSW, Australia, psychosocial guidelines have been developed to provide direction for enhanced service delivery, staff training and care processes. A major goal was to ensure persons with SCI would receive comprehensive psychosocial care, arguably leading to improved quality of life and functionality in daily living. It is believed that implementation of psychosocial recommendations into .. View More»