Co-designing narrative resources for implementation in lower limb amputation rehabilitation

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Health Psychology
• Co-design Methodology

Background:

• Narratives are crucial for processing illness and trauma, offering validation and support.
• Previous research developed five narratives for major lower limb amputation (MLLA) but lacked practical application.
• Bridging the research-practice gap in MLLA rehabilitation requires accessible narrative resources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate an immersive co-design process for developing narrative resources.
• To create narrative resources for individuals undergoing MLLA rehabilitation.
• To develop resources for allied healthcare professionals (AHPs) involved in MLLA rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• A 27-month co-design process was commissioned by an NHS MLLA rehabilitation centre.
• An iterative, three-stage immersive process involved patients, therapists, and managers.
• Co-design activities included immersion sessions and workshops.

Main Results:

• Two narrative resource packages were co-designed: one for patients, one for new AHPs.
• End-users perceived narratives as authentic and awareness-raising.
• Key factors for implementation included readiness and existing knowledge.

Conclusions:

• Co-designed narrative resources can enhance MLLA rehabilitation.
• The importance of contextualizing narratives in clinical practice is highlighted.
• Challenges in sharing sensitive narratives within clinical settings were identified.