Lack of knowledge and training are the major obstacles in application of the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) in China

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2019 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2018.1454021 · Published: July 1, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the use of functional outcome measurements for spinal cord injury (SCI) patients in China. It explores the knowledge of the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) among SCI physicians and identifies reasons for its limited use. The research highlights the necessity of formal training on SCIM to improve functional SCI outcome measurement in China.

Study Duration

2 years

Participants

125 Chinese SCI physicians

Evidence Level

Survey-based study

Key Findings

1
A significant number of physicians perform functional outcome measurements, but awareness and utilization of SCIM are low.
2
Lack of training is identified as the major obstacle to SCIM implementation in clinical practice.
3
Most physicians believe formal training is necessary before using SCIM, with hands-on workshops being the preferred method.

Research Summary

The study reveals that functional outcome measurement is acknowledged by Chinese physicians, but SCIM use is limited. Lack of knowledge and training significantly impede the application of SCIM in clinical practice. Formal training and a validated Chinese version of SCIM are essential for improving functional outcome measurement in China.

Practical Implications

Improve Training Programs

Develop and implement formal training programs, particularly hands-on workshops, to enhance physicians' knowledge and skills in using SCIM.

Develop Validated Translations

Create and validate a Chinese version of SCIM to overcome language barriers and improve accessibility for Chinese physicians.

Promote SCIM Awareness

Increase awareness of SCIM through lectures, publications, and peer recommendations to encourage its adoption in clinical practice.

Study Limitations

1
The survey respondents were primarily from major hospitals in developed areas of China.
2
The study focuses on SCIM III; SCIM IV was under development during the study.
3
The study did not include the content of SCIM IV into the questionnaire.

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