COVID-19 and spinal cord injury and disease: results of an international survey

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-020-0275-8 · Published: March 30, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury COVID-19 Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals with spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D) by surveying healthcare professionals internationally. The survey assessed how these professionals were screening, assessing, and treating SCI/D patients with potential COVID-19 infections. The survey also explored whether healthcare professionals and their SCI/D patients felt adequately informed about risk factors and preventive measures.

Study Duration

March 23, 2020 through the morning of March 27, 2020

Participants

783 responses from six continents

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Few participants had tested their outpatients with SCI/D for COVID-19, and only a small percentage reported having a patient with SCI/D diagnosed with the virus.
2
Many inpatient facilities were only screening individuals with symptoms or were not conducting any screening at all.
3
Patients with SCI/D expressed concerns about their vulnerability to infection and the fragility of their caretaker supply.

Research Summary

This international survey assessed the engagement and response of the spinal cord medicine community to the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey revealed variability in COVID-19 screening practices and availability of screening kits within the rehabilitation medicine community. People with SCI/D expressed concerns about their vulnerability to COVID-19, highlighting the need for standardized protocols and addressing these concerns.

Practical Implications

Standardize Best Practices

There is a need to standardize best-practice protocols throughout the rehabilitation community to address the concerns of people living with SCI/D.

Address Educational Needs

The study underscores substantial unmet educational needs for both rehabilitation medicine professionals and people living with SCI/D.

Promote Telemedicine

The results demonstrate the widespread and rapid implementation of telemedicine, suggesting its continued use post-pandemic.

COVID-19 and spinal cord injury and disease: results of an international survey

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Standardize Best Practices

Address Educational Needs

Promote Telemedicine

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

COVID-19 and spinal cord injury and disease: results of an international survey

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Standardize Best Practices

Address Educational Needs

Promote Telemedicine

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?