Economic assessment of pressure sore prevention using a computerized mattress system in patients with spinal cord injury.

Purpose: To assess the economic profitability of a new computerized mattress system in patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI) by comparison with two other alternatives, as an example of the use of a quantitative approach for decision-making in choosing between alternatives for sore prevention.

Method: The cost of achieving one day without signs of impending pressure sore was compared between the alternative options using cost minimization analysis. Savings in nursing costs for the three options were calculated for cost-benefit analysis.

Clinical and economic consequences of volume- or time-dependent intermittent catheterization in patients with spinal cord lesions and neuropathic bladder.

Study Design: Open comparative study.

Objective: To compare the impact of volume-dependent intermittent catheterization (VDIC) and time-dependent intermittent catheterization (TDIC) on financial burden and clinical outcomes in patients with spinal cord lesions (SCL).

Setting: Department of Spinal Rehabilitation, Loewenstein Rehabilitation Hospital, Israel.

Reliability of the Catz-Itzkovich Spinal Cord Independence Measure assessment by interview and comparison with observation.

Objective: To examine the reliability of assessment with the Catz-Itzkovich Spinal Cord Independence Measure II (SCIM II) by interview and compare the findings with assessment by observation.

Design: In a cohort, comparative study, 28 inpatients with spinal cord lesions were assessed by two nurses using the Catz-Itzkovich SCIM II (interview) and by a multidisciplinary team (observation).

Results: Total agreement between interviewers ranged from 50% to 80% (Kappa coefficients 0.

[SCIM--spinal cord independence measure (version II): sensitivity to functional changes].

Until recently, the functional ability of patients with spinal cord lesions (SCL) was assessed by standardized scales designed for various disabilities. However, these scales have either a relatively low sensitivity to changes in the functions that are most important for SCL patients or a limited suitability for a specific SCL subgroup. To counter this problem the team of the Spinal Department of Loewenstein Rehabilitation Hospital developed the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM), which is specific for SCL patients, adjusts for disadvantages of earlier scales, and is user-friendly.

Disability assessment by a single rater or a team: a comparative study with the Catz-Itzkovich spinal cord independence measure.

The Catz-Itzkovich Spinal Cord Independence Measure was found to be reliable and more sensitive than the FIM to functional changes, when used by a multidisciplinary team. This study was performed to find out whether assessment may be similar when done by a single rater. Twenty-eight patients with spinal cord lesions participated in the study, in which examinations performed within a week by a single nurse or a team were compared for correlation, differences and agreement.