Course Description:

A spinal cord injury is a devastating and life changing injury that affects not only the individual with the injury but the entire family. The road to recovery can be lengthy and complicated and will be unique, depending on the person’s level of injury. In addition to overcoming the physical challenges associated with paralysis, the individual has many psychosocial hurdles that must be addressed. The initial hospitalization and rehabilitation stays are short, and the person must navigate through much information during this time. With all the education and therapy, there is barely time for the person to internalize and process all the life changes and emotions associated with this new injury. This course will address the many psychosocial adjustments that these patients and families face and how the rehabilitation nurse can help foster adjustment through this transitional period. Challenges associated with aging with a spinal cord injury are explored.