OBJECTIVE. To explore the efficacy of low- and high-stretch compression bandaging for edema management in the stroke-affected upper limb. METHOD. A single-case, ABA-design study was conducted with 8 participants alternately allocated to receive low- or high-stretch bandaging. Edema was measured with circumferential tape at four specified points from the hand to the mid-forearm. All measurements were represented graphically for visual analysis, and celeration lines were calculated to indicate the degree of slope in each phase. RESULTS. Visual analysis indicated fluctuating edema volume in the first baseline phase, decreasing edema volume in the intervention phase, and increasing edema volume in the second baseline phase. The results did not clearly distinguish between the two bandaging groups. CONCLUSION. Compression bandaging may have benefits in the management of edema after stroke. Further research is required to identify factors contributing to the long-term maintenance of reductions gained after compression bandaging.
Participants regularly conveyed information to clients and carers with respect to management of the stroke-affected upper limb. However, an increased emphasis on the development of practical self-management skills, awareness of the impact of personal factors and a timeline for information provision may prove useful.
Purpose: This study explored stroke self-management within a tertiary hospital setting from the perspectives of health professionals working across the continuum of stroke care.
Materials and Methods:A qualitative descriptive design guided five focus groups in the acute stroke service (n=2), inpatient rehabilitation (n = 2), and outpatient day hospital service (n = 1). Focus groups were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis.Results: Twenty-eight health professionals participated representing medical, nursing, and allied health services. Two themes emerged from the data: Pieces of a puzzle illustrates the inconsistent understanding about self-management with elements of the puzzle described but rarely within the full concept of self-management; Readiness for self-management
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