title: Evaluation of super-link system theory for spinal cord injury patients using participatory action research in a rehabilitation hospital.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to integrate and evaluate the spinal cord injury rehabilitation nursing theory named Super-Link System Theory using participatory action research.
  
  
  METHODS
  Data were collected from October 2007 to September 2008 in a rehabilitation hospital by means of interviews, participant observations, documentary resources, case conferences and reports, and participants' self-reflective inquiries. The Super-Link System Theory was introduced to 31 rehabilitation nurses. The nurses selected a key reference group including the researcher to facilitate the participatory action research process to implement and evaluate the theory. Data were analyzed using content analysis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The findings shows that several key concepts were clarified and specific nursing interventions were identified. Furthermore, an integrated link system from the hospital to the community through both rehabilitation nurses and discharge planners was established.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The study demonstrated an evidence base for an evolving theory of care, and empowered nurses to make sustainable changes to their practice.
authors.affiliation: Department of Nursing, College of Health National, Taichung University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan. yutin@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Hsiao-Yu
authors.initials: HY
authors.lastname: Chen
authors.forename: Tzu-Jung
authors.initials: TJ
authors.lastname: Wu
authors.forename: Mei-Li
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Cheng
authors.forename: Hsi-Hui
authors.initials: HH
authors.lastname: Sung
mesh_terms: D015400:Clinical Nursing Research; D055318:Evidence-Based Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009742:Nursing Theory; D019145:Rehabilitation Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000451:nursing* / Q000534:rehabilitation*