Case study of an adolescent spinal cord injured patient

An adolescent SCI patient's constant resistant behaviors caused caregivers to reconsider the usual rehabilitation nursing focus of teaching for independence. Teaching goals were changed to focus on the most essential information and behaviors that would be needed for safe care after discharge. The family and the patient were able to learn these, and although no further progress has been made toward independence, it appears that the patient is being safely cared for in the community.