Spinal cord injuries (SCI) profoundly impact patients, requiring specialized, comprehensive care that addresses both physical and emotional challenges. We strive to redefine SCI rehabilitation through cutting-edge practices and collaboration. One of our own team members, Kirstin McLaggan, recently conducted a pivotal study exploring strategies to enhance SCI rehabilitation through interprofessional collaborative practice (IPCP). Published in the African Journal of Health Professions Education, Kirstin’s research sheds light on how collaboration between healthcare professionals in sub-acute care settings can revolutionise patient outcomes and improve the quality of life.

About the Study

Kirstin McLaggan, an Occupational Therapist at Nurture Aurora, collaborated with experts in South Africa and internationally to investigate effective strategies for SCI rehabilitation. Her research aimed to identify practical approaches to implementing IPCP in private post-acute care and physical rehabilitation hospitals, ultimately improving patient outcomes and experiences.

The study involved healthcare professionals across disciplines — including occupational therapists, physiotherapists, nurses, doctors, and social workers — and emphasized the need for strong communication, innovative tools, and ongoing training to ensure the highest quality of care in post-acute care settings.

Interprofessional communication emerged as a cornerstone of effective care. The study emphasised the importance of both formal and informal communication methods to ensure seamless collaboration. Formal communication structures, such as team meetings, family meetings, and daily huddles, were shown to be crucial. Team meetings offer a dedicated space for reviewing patient progress, tackling challenges, and setting collaborative goals.

Family meetings involve patients and their families in the rehabilitation journey, ensuring alignment on care plans and expectations. Daily huddles provide a dynamic, real-time platform for updating the care team, ensuring everyone remains informed and coordinated.

Alongside these formal methods, informal communication—enabled by open-door policies, shared office spaces, and digital messaging platforms—was highlighted as equally vital. These informal channels foster an accessible, collaborative environment where team members can quickly address issues and share information, ensuring that patient care is both proactive and responsive.

Another key theme identified in the study was the role of interprofessional tools in enhancing collaboration and care quality. Technology emerged as a transformative element, with digital platforms playing a pivotal role in centralizing patient information, tracking progress, and ensuring continuity across the care team. These systems not only streamline workflows but also reduce the risk of errors, making them indispensable in modern rehabilitation settings. Visual aids, such as care charts and goal boards, were also highlighted for their ability to provide clear, actionable information. By displaying key tasks and goals in an accessible format, these tools help maintain a shared focus among team members and improve communication with patients and families.

How Nurture Health is Transforming SCI Rehabilitation

At Nurture Health, we are committed to implementing these evidence-based strategies to enhance SCI rehabilitation. Here's how we’re leading the way:

A Culture of Collaboration: Our interdisciplinary teams work together seamlessly to provide holistic, patient-centered care.

Technology-Driven Solutions: We’re integrating digital platforms to optimise communication, track progress, and ensure the best outcomes for patients in post-acute care.

Empowering Patients and Families: By involving families in the rehabilitation process, we foster a supportive environment that encourages shared decision-making.

Investing in Excellence: Continuous training and capacity development ensure our healthcare workers stay at the forefront of best practices in physical rehabilitation.

With a dedicated team and a strong commitment to innovation, Nurture Health exemplifies the future of sub-acute care for SCI patients in South Africa.

Why Choose Nurture Health for SCI Rehabilitation?

Our patient-centered approach ensures that every aspect of care is tailored to individual needs. From cutting-edge technology to compassionate collaboration, we are dedicated to helping SCI patients reclaim their independence and improve their quality of life through personalized physical rehabilitation services.

We also love what we do, every day.

To learn how Nurture Health can support you or a loved one on the journey to recovery please contact your closest Nurture Health organisation. You can find all our information on www.nurturehealth.net