Fever During Rehabilitation in Patients With Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: Analysis of 392 Cases From a National Rehabilitation Hospital in Turkey

J Spinal Cord Med, 2010 · DOI: · Published: June 1, 2010

Spinal Cord Injury Immunology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study looked at fever in people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) during rehabilitation. It aimed to find out how common fever is, what causes it, and what makes some people more likely to get it. The study found that fever is common during SCI rehabilitation, and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most frequent cause. Patients with complete SCIs or indwelling catheters are at higher risk. Fever can make the hospital stay longer by interfering with rehabilitation. Identifying and treating the causes of fever early is important for better recovery.

Study Duration

5 Years

Participants

392 adults with traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The incidence of fever during rehabilitation was 47.7%.
2
Urinary tract infection was the most common cause of fever (70.6%).
3
Patients with complete SCI and those with indwelling catheters had a significantly higher incidence of fever.

Research Summary

The study aimed to determine the incidence and etiology of fever and the risk factors related to fever in adults with SCI at the rehabilitation stage. A high rate of fever was seen in patients with SCI during rehabilitation, with urinary tract infection being the most common cause. Patients with motor complete injuries and those with permanent catheters constituted higher risk groups. Fever prolonged the length of rehabilitation stay and hindered active participation in the rehabilitation program.

Practical Implications

Infection Prevention

Focus on preventing infections, especially UTIs, through methods like clean intermittent catheterization.

Risk Group Monitoring

Pay close attention to patients with complete SCI and those using indwelling catheters to detect and treat fever early.

Early Intervention

Promptly identify and address the underlying causes of fever to minimize its impact on rehabilitation progress and length of stay.

Study Limitations

1
Retrospective design
2
Single-center study
3
Axillary temperature measurements used instead of core temperature measurements

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