Impact of Patient Compliance with Rehabilitation on Functional Recovery in Stroke Survivors

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Volume: 11 | Issue: 01 | Year 2025 | Subscription
International Journal of Neurological Nursing
Received Date: 04/11/2025
Acceptance Date: 04/15/2025
Published On: 2025-04-23
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By: Shruti m Roy and Peter Jasper Youtham

1.PhD Scholar, Department of Nursing, Index Nursing College, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
2. Professor & Research Guide, Department of Nursing, Index Nursing College, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Background Stroke rehabilitation is vital in improving mobility, achieving functional independence, and enhancing psychological health. However, sticking to rehabilitation programs is a significant hurdle, especially in low- and middle-income nations like India. Poor adherence is associated with delayed recovery, more significant disability, and an increased likelihood of secondary issues. Although a growing body of evidence highlights the significance of rehabilitation adherence, research on its effects in the Indian context remains limited. This study aims to assess the connection between adherence to rehabilitation and functional recovery outcomes in stroke survivors. It specifically investigates how adherence influences mobility enhancements (Functional Mobility Scale, Timed Up, and Go Test), independence in daily activities (Barthel Index), and psychological well-being (PHQ-9 Depression Scale). Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted at Index Medical College, Hospital & Research Center, involving 200 individuals who had survived a stroke. The participants were categorized into two groups: High-Adherence Group (80% or more adherence, n = 100). Low-Adherence Group (adherence below 80%, n = 100). Adherence to rehabilitation was monitored through digital attendance records, patient rehabilitation journals, and weekly follow-ups by nurses. Functional mobility, independence in activities of daily living (ADL), and psychological well-being were assessed at baseline (Week 0), Week 12, and Week 24. Results Functional Mobility: Higher adherence levels were significantly associated with enhanced mobility improvements (FMS: 4.38 ± 0.45 compared to 3.10 ± 0.51, p < 0.001; TUG: 11.9 ± 2.1 seconds versus 16.5 ± 2.8 seconds, p < 0.001). ADL Independence: By the 24th week, individuals with high adherence exhibited a 24% increase in Barthel Index scores (84.1 ± 10.2 as opposed to 67.5 ± 9.4, p < 0.001). Psychological Well-Being: Greater adherence correlated with a 48% more substantial reduction in PHQ-9 depression scores (4.8 ± 1.9 compared to 9.2 ± 2.7, p < 0.001). Multivariate Regression Analysis: Adherence to rehabilitation emerged as the most significant predictor of functional recovery (β = +4.5, p < 0.001). Conclusion Stroke survivors who closely follow rehabilitation nursing interventions tend to experience enhanced mobility, increased independence in activities of daily living (ADL), and better psychological health. Since adherence is the most significant factor in recovery, hospitals are encouraged to implement nursing-led adherence initiatives and utilize digital tools for tracking adherence to boost patient involvement. Future studies should investigate the long-term impacts, explore telerehabilitation approaches, and consider gender-specific adherence methods to improve stroke recovery results further.

Keywords Stroke Rehabilitation, Adherence, Nursing Interventions, Functional Mobility, Barthel Index, Depression, India

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Citation:

How to cite this article: Shruti m Roy and Peter Jasper Youtham, Impact of Patient Compliance with Rehabilitation on Functional Recovery in Stroke Survivors. International Journal of Neurological Nursing. 2025; 11(01): -p.

How to cite this URL: Shruti m Roy and Peter Jasper Youtham, Impact of Patient Compliance with Rehabilitation on Functional Recovery in Stroke Survivors. International Journal of Neurological Nursing. 2025; 11(01): -p. Available from:https://journalspub.com/publication/ijnen/article=16344

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