Poster 82: Peer Mentoring Outcomes and Processes in In-Patient Rehabilitation: A Mixed-Methods Study Integrating Multiple Stakeholder Perspectives

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the outcomes and processes of a coordinated peer mentoring program in inpatient rehabilitation from the perspective of multiple rehabilitation stakeholders. Design: Iterative 3-phase mixed-methods design, including: (1) in-person patient surveys, (2) peer mentor focus groups, and (3) an internet-based survey of rehabilitation providers. Setting: Large free-standing rehabilitation hospital in the Midwestern United States. Participants: Rehabilitation inpatients (n=50), trained peer mentors with spinal cord injuries, strokes, traumatic brain injuries and amputations (n=19), rehabilitation professionals (n=366). Interventions: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: (1) 20-item in-person patient satisfaction survey that evaluates peer mentoring outcomes and processes, including: perceived benefits, quality of interactions, overall satisfaction, and resources sharing. (2) 27-item internet-based provider survey of knowledge and use of peer mentoring services including barriers to use. Results: Rehabilitation inpatients (94%) rated peer mentoring as an important component of the rehabilitation process. Inpatients reported receiving informational (90%), emotional (77%) and appraisal support (94%) from their interactions with disabled peer mentors. Informational support was most frequently related to independent living and community participation. Providers rated peer mentoring as an important component of the rehabilitation process (98%) and endorsed its coordination with clinical staff to support integration (60%) and communication (76%). Survey and focus group data point to the importance of systematic coordination of clinical and nonclinical staff for a successful peer mentoring program. They also suggest that important barriers to successful integration of peer mentors include concerns over patients' readiness for peer interventions, clinician time constraints, and reduced patient stays. Conclusions: This study elucidates the process, outcomes, and integration of a coordinated peer mentoring program in inpatient rehabilitation. The study findings can help inform the development of best practice guidelines for peer mentoring services.