Rehabilitation Nursing Care in functional recovery of Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury

A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Spinal cord injury affects millions of people, compromising both motor and sensory functions. The Specialist Nurse in Rehabilitation Nursing plays a crucial role in guiding individuals through the transition from independence to either total or moderate dependence.

Methodology: A clinical case study was conducted from June to July 2023, focusing on an individual with clinically unlikely motor recovery. A motor functional rehabilitation program was implemented, with progress monitored using validated assessment tools specific to the specialty area.

Results: The Barthel Index improved from high level of dependence to a moderate level. In the Functional Independence Measure, motor independence increased from 15 to 52. The patient achieved both static and dynamic sitting balance, with improvements in lower limb muscle strength.

Discussion: Despite initial data suggesting a motor recovery impairment, considerable improvement was observed, especially at a proximal level. There was also progress in self-care and the ability to transfer with assistive devices to the wheelchair, as well as independence in wheelchair mobility. Study limitations included limited resources and the exclusion of some aspects such as bowel and bladder elimination.

Conclusion: A systematic rehabilitation nursing intervention can result in significant health gains, promoting the individual's adaptation to their new condition and autonomy in daily life, including the reversal of motor deficits.