Goal setting in neurological rehabilitation: staff perspectives

The purpose of this study was to explore rehabilitation professionals' perspectives about goal setting, and more particularly, the use of two specific forms of goal setting used within the same setting; 'usual participation' and 'increased participation'.

A qualitative research approach was identified as being particularly pertinent for the aims of this study. Fifteen rehabilitation professionals representing five different professions and having experience of usual and increased participation goal setting approaches used in one Neurological Rehabilitation Unit participated in two focus groups. The focus group questions were designed to elicit staff views about goal setting generally, and to invite comparison regarding their experiences of using two goal setting approaches. The focus group transcripts were analysed according to thematic analysis principles.

Five themes were identified: the goal setting tools (including views about the folder developed for one form of goal setting); barriers to goal setting (including lack of time, professional group work patterns and lack of experience), the keyworker role (including prerequisites for effective keyworking); patient characteristics (disease, personality and expectations); and the nature of goals.

Whilst the 'increased participation' mode of goal setting was seen as having the potential to allow patients a stronger voice within the goal setting process, both time and resources are required to ensure that this potential is fully realised.