The Relationship Between Care Preparedness and Care Competencies of Caregivers Caring for Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury.

PURPOSE: Spinal cord injury is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. This study aims to assess the caregiving competence and readiness of first-time caregivers for individuals with SCI.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional and correlational study.

METHODS

The study was conducted with 122 first-time caregivers of persons diagnosed with paraplegia or tetraplegia, hospitalized in a rehabilitation hospital in Ankara, Türkiye. Data were collected using the Descriptive Characteristics Form, the Caregiving Preparedness Scale, and the Caregiving Competence Scale. Analyses included descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression methods.

RESULTS

Among the participants, 77% were female, and 41.8% had at least one chronic disease. Furthermore, 73.8% had received training from health care professionals on caregiving. The most challenging aspect of caregiving was transfers (45.1%). A strong positive correlation was found between caregiving competence and caregiving preparedness (r=.836, p<.001). Higher education and prior training were associated with greater competence and preparedness.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE TO THE PRACTICE OF REHABILITATION NURSING: Findings underscore the importance of structured, individualized caregiver education. Rehabilitation nurses play a pivotal role in improving caregiver skills and reducing care burden.

CONCLUSIONS

Targeted training programs during inpatient rehabilitation can significantly enhance caregiver competence and readiness, contributing to better outcomes for both caregivers and individuals with SCI.