The development of a nurse-directed computerized functional electrical stimulation program.

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Neuroscience
• Nursing Science

Background:

• Individuals with spinal-cord injury (SCI) face early discharge from inpatient care.
• This necessitates significant adaptation to daily living and psychological adjustment.
• Concerns about the impact of early discharge on SCI patient well-being have been noted since 1994.

Observation:

• The Medical Illness Counseling Center (MICC) has provided a community-based, nurse-directed Computerized Functional Electrical Stimulation (CFES) program for over a decade.
• The program operates on the principle that preventing multi-system deterioration and employing a behavioral approach enhances well-being.
• The program evolved into a comprehensive medical, nursing, and psychological care package.

Findings:

• Participation in the CFES program offers significant benefits to individuals with SCI.
• The program design incorporates essential elements for successful implementation.
• CFES technology plays a crucial role in a nurse-managed setting.

Implications:

• This nurse-directed CFES program demonstrates a successful model for SCI rehabilitation.
• It highlights the importance of community-based, comprehensive care post-discharge.
• The findings underscore the value of innovative technologies like CFES in improving patient outcomes and well-being.