2011 highlights of the Sister Kenny Spinal Cord System of Care

Among the 2011 accomplishments of the Spinal Cord System of Care (SCSC) were research on an outcomes tool, weight management study, new day-long evaluation program in the Continuity Clinic and CARF reaccreditation.

• SCSC has been involved in research both through Sister Kenny Research Center and as a part of a multi-center study that resulted in publication in 2011. It was one of 20 sites that collected admission and discharge data for inpatients with spinal cord injury to determine the reliability of using an outcomes tool sensitive to the needs and abilities of people with spinal cord injury.
• Since SCSC provides life-long services to people with spinal cord injury through the Continuity Clinic, we have seen first-hand the challenges of obesity – not only for the U.S. population as a whole, but particularly for those with disabilities. We completed a pilot study looking at the feasibility and impact of a 12-week community-based program for wellness and weight management for people with paraplegia. The results were published in 2011, and the findings have been incorporated into educational offerings across the system of care and in tailoring services through the LiveWell Fitness Center at Abbott Northwestern Hospital to best meet the needs of people with disabilities.
• New to the Continuity Clinic in 2011 is a comprehensive therapy evaluation day. People with chronic spinal cord injury participate in a day-long meeting with an occupational therapist, physical therapist, psychologist, social worker and therapeutic recreation specialist. This transdisciplinary team assesses the participant’s current neurological function level using the ASIA Impairment Scale; determines his/her level of participation in the community using the Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Tool; screens for anxiety and depression using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Screen; and completes a comprehensive inventory of his/her current health, wellness, financial and emotional support needs. This information is then utilized by the participant’s physiatrist and nurse practitioner during his/her annual follow-up exam.
• Sister Kenny’s inpatient and outpatient SCSC programs were reaccredited by CARF: the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.