Management of Sleep-Disordered Breathing in a Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Center: Model of Care Adaptation and Implementation

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2024 · DOI: 10.46292/sci23-00049 · Published: January 1, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Pulmonology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study focuses on implementing a new way to manage obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) within a spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation center. OSA is common in people with SCI but often goes undiagnosed and untreated. The researchers adapted a model of care from other successful centers and tailored it to fit the specific needs and challenges of an Australian SCI rehabilitation unit. This involved identifying barriers to implementing the new model and developing strategies to overcome them. The team provided education and training to the rehabilitation staff, acquired necessary equipment, and established clear pathways for assessing and treating OSA. The goal was to improve access to OSA diagnosis and treatment for individuals undergoing SCI rehabilitation.

Study Duration

8 Months (adaptation phase)

Participants

Multidisciplinary team from an SCI rehabilitation unit

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
A rehabilitation-led model for managing OSA was successfully adapted and implemented in an Australian SCI rehabilitation center.
2
Key barriers to implementation included a lack of knowledge, skills, and confidence among the rehabilitation team, which were addressed through targeted education and training.
3
Clear clinical pathways and defined roles within the multidisciplinary team were crucial for successful implementation.

Research Summary

This study describes the adaptation and implementation of a rehabilitation-led model for managing OSA in an SCI rehabilitation center in Australia, addressing the high prevalence and poor management of OSA in this population. The project involved adapting a care model from flagship centers, performing a needs analysis to identify local barriers, and developing tailored interventions to address these barriers, guided by implementation and behavior change theories. The implemented model includes pathways for assessments and treatments, role allocation within the rehabilitation team, and comprehensive education and training, marking the first such implementation in an Australian SCI rehabilitation center.

Practical Implications

Improved Access to OSA Care

Implementing rehabilitation-led models can improve access to diagnosis and treatment of OSA for people with SCI, who often face difficulties accessing specialist services.

Theory-Informed Implementation

The study demonstrates a structured, theory-informed approach to implementing new healthcare practices, which can be replicated in other rehabilitation settings.

Multidisciplinary Team Approach

The success of the model relies on a well-trained and collaborative multidisciplinary team, highlighting the importance of team roles and responsibilities.

Study Limitations

1
Limited resources for a full analysis of potential local barriers prior to implementation.
2
Lack of dedicated time for clinical team members to undertake assessments and CPAP initiation.
3
Unsuccessful attempts to partner with people with SCI from the beginning of the project due to external issues.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury