Table 3.
Comparison of MFG-SCI and control treatment (SCIEC)
| Treatment Component | MFG-SCI | # sessions | SCIEC | # sessions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joining | Dyad-tailored Education: a SWOT analysis, SCI problems identified and corrected. | 2(3) b | Standard Dyad Intake: History of person with SCI and caregiver focusing on current health, skin care, bladder management, bowel management. No skills training, interventions, or formulation of management problems and needed adjustments. | 2(3) b |
| Formulation of management problems and coping. Recommend one or more strategies and adjustments (individual and dyad). | ||||
| Group Introductory Sessions | Educational Workshop: ASIA classification, clinical syndromes, rehab therapy, medications, health lifestyle, the family and adjustment, family guidelines. Structure and function of multifamily group, how it can help. | 2 | SCIEC Education Introduction: Structure and rationale for intervention. Rules of conduct. Overview of topics to be covered. | 1 |
| Ongoing Group Sessions | Problem-solving & Skills Training Sessions: Problem-solving designed to address specific problems associated with SCI. Compensatory strategies for SCI problems, planning ahead. | 12 | SCIEC Education: General information provided to promote healthy living in areas relevant for persons with SCI and caregivers (bladder/bowel management, nutrition, use of alcohol, drugs, safe exercise). | 13 |
| Personal health concerns not discussed; however, discuss referral to provider. | ||||
| Total | 16 | 16 |
aIn addition to basic intake
bThe default is 2 sessions, an optional 3rd session may be used to maintain contact with group members recruited early, or where the dyads are uncertain about continued participation