Participatory continuous nursing using the WeChat platform for patients with spinal cord injuries

Abstract

Objective The study aim was to analyse the effect of participatory continuous nursing using the WeChat platform on the complications, family function and compliance of patients with spinal cord injuries. Methods This was a randomized controlled trial. Seventy-eight patients with stable disease treated by internal fixation were enrolled in the study from August 2017 to August 2019 and assigned equally to an observation group and a control group. The control group received regular care from the time of discharge. The observation group used the WeChat platform to participate in continuous care. Results Six months after discharge, the continuous nursing group had a significantly lower incidence of pressure ulcers, urinary tract infections, joint contractures and muscle atrophy than the control group. The continuous nursing group showed a significant improvement in family function level and compliance behaviour at 3 and 6 months after discharge. Conclusion A participation-based continuous nursing intervention using the WeChat platform can reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers, urinary tract infections, joint contracture and muscle atrophy; improve patient family function; and promote healthy compliance behaviour.