Greater patient participation in nursing activities is associated with better outcomes. More time spent by
RNs in coordination with other members of the care team, consultants and specialists, along with participation in
physician rounds (team process) is associated with patient report of higher life satisfaction and higher CHART
mobility at the one-year injury anniversary; more time providing psychosocial support is associated with higher
CHART mobility and occupation scores and with greater likelihood of working or being in school at the
anniversary. More time spent providing education about specific care needs is associated with several
outcomes but not as consistently as might be expected.
Conclusion(s): Higher levels of patient participation in nursing care activities is associated with multiple better
outcomes, and hence, nurses should promote active patient participation during all aspects of care and
interactions between themselves and patients with SCI. Time spent providing psychosocial support of
patients and their families should be evaluated to ensure that other necessary education or care
management interventions are not minimized.