Effect of nursing care on self-care efficiency of patients with hemiparesis

The aim of the study was to determine the role of a nurse in rehabilitation of patients with hemiparesis. The study covered 60 patients--21 males and 39 females, aged 39-65, who underwent cerebral stroke and retained good verbal contact. While the patients were performing various instrumental-manual activities they were trained for self-care activities, and the effects were analysed. Self-care activities included hygienic activities and control of the body functions, such as: control of cardiovascular parameters, consumption of meals, control of sphincter muscles, prevention of muscular contractures and atrophy, as well as bed-sores and hemi-neglect syndrome. At Stage 1 of the study a considerable percentage of patients (approx. 50%) represented a lower category of self-care, while at Stage 2 the greatest number of patients attained a higher category (approx. 73.0%). In general, a considerable increase was noted in the percentage of patients who were efficient with respect to self-care, i.e. by 23.0%.