title: Using personal assistance services after spinal cord injury: the role of the nurse.
abstract: Many people with spinal cord injury (SCI) need a personal assistant (PA) to help them with activities of daily living. Personal assistance services can make a critical difference in adjustment to SCI and the ability to live independently. Using the independent living model, the person with a disability (employer) directs and monitors his/her health care needs. This article focuses on two essential skills needed by the employer of a personal assistant: 1) creation of a thorough job description using checklists and 2) communication skills needed to supervise the PA. Knowledge of these management skills will enhance the nurse's practice when working with clients who are new or experienced in using personal assistance services.
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Anderle
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D018576:Home Health Aides / Q000193:education; D006801:Humans; D006920:Hygiene; D007587:Job Description; D008297:Male; D009737:Nursing Records; D009745:Nursing, Supervisory; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000451:nursing*