Patient behavior as a predictor of outcomes in spinal cord injury

This study explores relationships between behavior of spinal cord injured persons during hospitalization and their medical and behavioral status after discharge. It illustrates a logic for identifying, selecting and testing indicators of patient performance that predict important aspects of outcome. Key behavioral measures were obtained for 14 patients, including independence, diversity, level of activity, and mobility. Factor analysis and multiple regression analysis were used to identify significant predictors of outcome. A subset of inhospital measures predicted an estimated 39% of the variance in unscheduled readmissions to the rehabilitation center, and 70% of the variance in independent functioning after discharge. Inhospital mobility predicted an estimated 68% of the variance in the rate of activities performed outside the home. In general, measures obtained late in hospital stays were the best predictors of both medical and behavioral status. Patient behavior during hospitalization can have practical implications for planning health care services and clinical practice.