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Date of Award
Spring 2024
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Sophie Farley, PA-C
Abstract
Adults with spinal cord injury present with varying degrees of injury due to trauma, causing deficits that can have significant effects on a patient’s mental health in the acute setting, throughout recovery, and for the rest of their lives. While a clinician’s main priority is the management of the patient’s physical condition, they should also be able to identify risk factors for mental health concerns. Providers have an opportunity to initiate early intervention and education with their patients to support them through the psychosocial challenges they may face with new traumatic injury and rehabilitation.
This article highlights risk factors and potential diagnoses to remember when evaluating spinal cord injury patients. Additionally, this article cites relevant research supporting the benefits of early intervention to treat post-traumatic mental health concerns, demonstrating improved recovery outcomes. Finally, this article provides recommendations for steps that clinicians can take to identify and support patients with mental health concerns.
Recommended Citation
Gough, Delaney, "Screening for Psychological Disorders in Spinal Cord Injury after Trauma in Adults" (2024). Capstone Showcase. 22.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2024/pa/22
Screening for Psychological Disorders in Spinal Cord Injury after Trauma in Adults
Adults with spinal cord injury present with varying degrees of injury due to trauma, causing deficits that can have significant effects on a patient’s mental health in the acute setting, throughout recovery, and for the rest of their lives. While a clinician’s main priority is the management of the patient’s physical condition, they should also be able to identify risk factors for mental health concerns. Providers have an opportunity to initiate early intervention and education with their patients to support them through the psychosocial challenges they may face with new traumatic injury and rehabilitation.
This article highlights risk factors and potential diagnoses to remember when evaluating spinal cord injury patients. Additionally, this article cites relevant research supporting the benefits of early intervention to treat post-traumatic mental health concerns, demonstrating improved recovery outcomes. Finally, this article provides recommendations for steps that clinicians can take to identify and support patients with mental health concerns.