Implementing volunteer peer mentoring as a supplement to professional efforts in primary rehabilitation of persons with spinal cord injury

Spinal Cord, 2019 · DOI: 10.1038/s41393-019-0294-0 · Published: May 23, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Social Support

Simple Explanation

This study explores the feasibility of a nationwide peer-mentoring program for individuals with spinal cord injuries during their initial rehabilitation. The program aimed to supplement the professional care they were receiving. Volunteer mentors, who themselves had experience with spinal cord injuries, were matched with patients to provide support and guidance. The study found that establishing such a program is feasible and acceptable, with participants reporting improvements in their quality of life after mentoring.

Study Duration

1 year

Participants

52 in-patients with acute/subacute spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Feasibility study, supplemented by a non-controlled pretest/posttest

Key Findings

1
A nationwide mentor corps was successfully established.
2
Participants reported significant improvement in quality of life (QoL) after peer mentoring.
3
A large majority (94%) of participants would recommend the peer mentoring program to others.

Research Summary

The study investigated the feasibility and acceptability of a nationwide volunteer peer mentoring system for in-patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) during primary rehabilitation. The results showed that establishing a nationwide mentor system is feasible and acceptable to both rehabilitation staff and in-patients. Participants reported significant improvements in quality of life and depression-related items after participating in the peer mentoring program.

Practical Implications

Implementation of Peer Mentoring Programs

Hospitals and rehabilitation centers can consider implementing structured peer mentoring programs to supplement professional rehabilitation efforts for SCI patients.

Mentor Training and Support

It is important to provide adequate training and ongoing support for volunteer peer mentors to ensure they are well-prepared and supported in their role.

Future Research Directions

Further research, including randomized controlled trials, is needed to measure the specific effects of peer mentoring on outcomes such as self-efficacy and resilience.

Study Limitations

1
The study design included a non-controlled pretest/posttest, which limits the ability to draw causal conclusions.
2
The study did not obtain data regarding the mentors' qualifications.
3
A few eligible patients did not want to participate in the project because participation entailed an expectation of completing two questionnaires.

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