Abstract
Study design
Qualitative study
Objectives
The aim of this study was to evaluate peer counselling during inpatient rehabilitation of patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI). This article describes the experience with peer counselling from the perspective of patients with SCI as well as from the perspective of the peer counsellors.
Setting
Inpatient rehabilitation of SCI in the Swiss Paraplegic Centre.
Methods
Six interviews with patients and one focus group interview with professional peer counsellors have been evaluated using qualitative content analysis.
Results
Patients experienced the peer counselling sessions as solution-oriented, practical, motivating and especially appreciated the authentic, open demeanor of the peer counsellors. Conversations about recreational activities, hobbies and interests supported the development of interpersonal relationships. Peer counsellors experienced the initial visits with patients with high level quadriplegia as a special challenge. The regular presence of all peer counsellors in the hospital facilitated an easier exchange with the patients.
Conclusion
Patients feel empowered by peer counselling. Special attention should be placed on the timing of the initial visit. Unplanned meetings between patient and peers seem to be essential and highly valued. Peer counsellors are confronted with stressful situations in their work, therefore the need for support and training of peer counsellors should be further investigated.
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Acknowledgements
Many thanks to all peer counsellors and patients who made this study possible. We also like to thank Tim Shelton who is a native English speaker and working as peer counsellor for reviewing the translation of the quotes and the English language of the manuscript.
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Roth, K., Mueller, G. & Wyss, A. Experiences of peer counselling during inpatient rehabilitation of patients with spinal cord injuries. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 5, 1 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-018-0144-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-018-0144-x
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