October Grand Rounds

On Tuesday, October 26, 2010, we hosted our quarterly Spinal Cord Injury Grand Rounds presentation. Dr. Susan Newman, PhD, RN, CRRN, presented on "Beyond the hospital walls: The community through the eyes of people with spinal cord injury." The objectives of the presentation included to recognize the issues encountered by people with SCI in the community setting, to consider an ecological view of SCI rehabilitation that addresses both the individual and the environment, and to identify potential barriers and supports to optimal independence, health, and community participation after SCI.

In the presentation, Dr Newman gave an introduction to SCI and community integration and participation including environmental barriers in every day life. Dr Newman gave an overview of her research of environmental barriers and facilitators to community participation in the Charleston, SC area as perceived by individuals with SCI. Dr Newman has utilized photovoice in her research in order to capture the perspective of individuals in the community, promote knowledge through discussion of photographs, and reach policy makers. Her research has found that individuals with SCI were able to pinpoint environmental factors in the community that deter their participation. These factors can include products and technology, natural environment, support and relationships, attitudes, and services, systems and policies.

Thirty five attendees came to the presentation which included nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and researchers from MUSC and surrounding area health care organizations. All attendees received one hour of CME credit for participation.

The presentation can be viewed at the following link:

http://tegr.it/y/1z1f