title: Building a successful support group for post-amputation patients.
abstract: The purpose of this article is to identify five steps to attain a successful amputee support group and share the process for establishing and maintaining a peer visitation program for in-patient amputees. Whatever the cause, losing a limb is a life-changing event that one should not go through alone. Support groups can assist patients and their families through this transition in a positive and healthy way.
authors.affiliation: Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network, Cedar Crest & I-78, Allentown, PA 18105, USA.
authors.forename: Karen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Marzen-Groller
authors.forename: Kimberly
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Bartman
mesh_terms: D000671:Amputation, Surgical / Q000451:nursing / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D020380:Needs Assessment; D010414:Pennsylvania; D010934:Planning Techniques; D016730:Program Development / Q000379:methods*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012657:Self-Help Groups