Nursing Psychosocial Interventions for Psychological Well-being of Patients with Spinal Cord Injury: An Integrative Review

Document Type

Poster Presentation

Publication Date

4-17-2026

Keywords

fsc2026

Abstract

Theoretical Framework: This review is guided by the Spinal Cord Injury Adjustment Model and the Stress-Appraisal-Coping (SAC) framework, which highlight how cognitive appraisals and coping strategies influence psychological adjustment after spinal cord injury (SCI).

Background: SCI presents profound physical and emotional challenges, including depression, anxiety, and identity disruption, especially during acute rehabilitation. Bedside nurses, through continuous presence and therapeutic communication, are uniquely positioned to offer psychosocial support, yet evidence on nursing-led interventions is limited.

Purpose: To examine the impact of bedside nursing psychosocial interventions on psychological well-being in SCI patients and synthesize evidence on appraisal, coping, and social support relevant to nursing practice.

Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, APA PsycInfo, and CINAHL identified 271 articles, of which 10 met inclusion criteria. Designs included longitudinal, cross-sectional, randomized, qualitative, and case studies focusing on psychosocial factors—appraisal, coping, emotional response, and participation—within inpatient rehabilitation. Outcomes included depression, anxiety, resilience, coping efficacy, self-efficacy, participation, and overall psychological well-being. Data were synthesized into four themes: cognitive appraisal, coping strategies, psychosocial resources, and psychological interventions.

Concept Analysis: Key concepts include cognitive appraisal, coping strategies, self-efficacy, social support, and resource enhancement. Nurses can operationalize these through bedside interventions such as appraisal-focused communication, cognitive reframing, peer support facilitation, and coping reinforcement.

Results: Threat-based appraisals predicted higher depression and anxiety, while positive appraisals and adaptive coping promoted resilience and emotional stability. Self-efficacy, purpose in life, and social support improved psychological adjustment. Structured interventions —cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and SAC–based— enhanced coping and well-being. Bedside nurses can apply these principles through appraisal-focused communication, cognitive reframing, peer support facilitation, and coping reinforcement.

Conclusions & Implications: Bedside nursing psychosocial interventions can foster psychological resilience and long-term adjustment in SCI patients. Clinical practice, nursing education, and future research should prioritize psychosocial training, integrate structured bedside interventions, and evaluate post-discharge outcomes to support holistic rehabilitation.

Comments

Poster presented at the 2026 Fisher Showcase, St. John Fisher University, April 17, 2026.

This document is currently not available here.

Additional Files

Share

COinS