Client and family learning in the rehabilitation setting

Learning in the rehabilitation setting, whether it be inpatient or community based, is a vital part of the client and family's role as consumers of rehabilitation care. Educational programs foster client participation in selecting appropriate modes of learning activities as they relate to the recovery process and help the client and family make a smooth transition into community living. Varied modes of instruction may be used, including practice sessions, group learning activities, computerized programs, use of videos as well as printed resources. The role of the nurse as educator coupled with a broad range of teaching strategies provides the client and family effective tools to make ongoing changes related to their functional abilities. The role of the rehabilitation nurse as an educator is an evolving one. No longer is the nurse practicing in a rehabilitative setting, whether it be inpatient or community based, guaranteed what appeared to be unending time to conduct educational programs. Past constraints, shortened stays, the client assuming an earlier role as a self-care agent, the focus on wellness, disabled individuals mainstreaming into community life, greater family involvement in rehabilitation efforts, and increased use of paraprofessionals force the nurse to strengthen and clarify her role as educator. Nurses need to value their teaching role as an integral part of the team effort. Strategies include scheduling teaching time with clients and families, recording activities and outcomes, discussing educational issues with other disciplines, and designing and promoting an environment that is conducive to learning.