Improving self-efficacy in spinal cord injury patients through "design thinking" rehabilitation workshops

BMJ Quality Improvement Reports, 2014 · DOI: 10.1136/bmjquality.u205728.w2340 · Published: January 1, 2014

Simple Explanation

This project tested the effect of "design thinking" workshops on the self-efficacy of people undergoing rehabilitation following spinal injuries. Design thinking involves applying design approaches to creatively address problems and find solutions, focusing on developing a long-term creative mindset through skills like lateral thinking and communication. The study found that design thinking workshops can improve patient experience and potentially enhance their ability to cope with the life-changing effects of spinal cord injuries.

Study Duration

15 Months

Participants

20 participants with spinal cord injuries

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Statistically significant improvements were observed in EQ-5D scores and Patient Activation Measure scores after the design thinking workshops.
2
Qualitative interviews indicated improved patient experience, with participants viewing the workshops as a positive addition to their rehabilitation.
3
The workshops may promote a long-term shift in thought processes and empower patients to direct their care more effectively.

Research Summary

This project explored the effect of design thinking workshops on the self-efficacy of patients undergoing rehabilitation after spinal cord injuries. The study found statistically significant improvements in EQ-5D and Patient Activation Measure scores, and qualitative data indicated a positive impact on patient experience. The project highlights the potential of design thinking as a complementary approach to traditional rehabilitation, fostering a creative mindset and empowering patients in their recovery.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Self-Management

Design Thinking workshops align with self-management approaches, focusing on self-efficacy and behavior change, potentially improving patient outcomes.

Improved Patient Experience

Integrating design thinking into rehabilitation can provide mental stimulation and improve patients' overall experience during their hospital stay.

Clinical Practice Innovation

This mixed-method evaluation provides a strong baseline for further research and suggests the transferability of design thinking interventions to other clinical areas.

Study Limitations

1
The study was a feasibility study, and causality cannot be inferred from the results.
2
The intervention's preliminary form was not initially sensitive to the context of the unit.
3
The chaotic nature of the system and the fact that only a proportion of patients received the intervention limit conclusions about the effect on the global length of stay.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury