Nursing case management: enhancing interdisciplinary care of the spinal cord injured patient

Comprehensive care of the person with a spinal cord injury (SCI) requires collaborative, coordinated, interdisciplinary care. It is imperative that the care provided by nurses, therapists, physicians, and ancillary personnel is organized and integrated in a holistic manner if optimal outcomes of rehabilitation are to be achieved. Nursing case management has been identified as an approach to health care delivery that provides quality, patient-centered care. The potential impact of this care delivery model on the health care system for persons with SCI includes quality rehabilitation outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, enhanced interdisciplinary relationships, and improved continuity of care from intensive care to community settings.