Abstract
BackgroundSpinal cord injury (SCI) healthcare providers are aware of the harmful consequences of overweight/obesity in persons with SCI, but many are unaware of available information and lack training to guide weight management care in the SCI population. ObjectiveDescribe the development and content of an educational curriculum for healthcare providers to help individuals with SCI prevent or manage overweight/obesity. MethodsThe biopsychoecological framework guided curriculum planning, data collection, and product development. Thematic analysis of interviews conducted with individuals with SCI, informal caregivers, and SCI healthcare providers pinpointed central educational curriculum topics. SCI healthcare providers evaluated the curriculum. ResultsSeven comprehensive topics were developed: 1. Scope and consequences of overweight/obesity in SCI; 2. Classifying and measuring overweight/obesity in SCI; 3. Guidelines related to weight management in SCI; 4. Identifying challenges (and solutions) to weight management in SCI; 5. Strategies for providers to facilitate weight management; 6. Understanding goals, motivators, and desired feedback for weight management; and 7. Knowing how informal caregivers are affected by weight and weight management of care recipients with SCI. High ratings (>80% strong agreement) were achieved on content, word choice, organization, relevance, and actionability. Modification needs were identified and subsequently made to layout, visual aids, and provision of tangible resources. Providers described the curriculum as a scientifically rigorous resource that addresses a knowledge gap, provides population-specific content, and is useful across interdisciplinary teams. ConclusionWe developed a self-directed learning educational curriculum addressing topics most salient to stakeholders involved in overweight/obesity management of persons with SCI.
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