Transforming Our Practice: Neuro-Developmental Treatment Approach following Stroke

Introduction: Four therapists working in gerontology and neurology attended a ‘Neuro Developmental Treatment (NDT) / Bobath Certificate Course in the Management and Treatment of Adults with Hemiplegia’. Stroke services... [ view full abstract ]

Introduction:
Four therapists working in gerontology and neurology attended a ‘Neuro Developmental Treatment (NDT) / Bobath Certificate Course in the Management and Treatment of Adults with Hemiplegia’. Stroke services were transformed following this training.

Methodology:
A series of interdisciplinary workshops were completed over 4 years across stroke services in Mayo. Participants completed evaluation forms after the workshops. Thematic analysis was used to obtain results which were collated using Microsoft Excel. To measure impact of the change in treatment approach in stroke services a comparative analysis was completed regarding patient outcomes before and after therapist training in NDT. The patient’s experience of the NDT approach to their treatment was evaluated via patient questionnaire.

Results:
Preliminary analysis suggests that the completion of formal NDT training and the in-service workshops regarding its application to stroke services in Mayo have had a positive impact on patient and therapist experiences.

Conclusion:
This transformation of our practice has established a foundation for improved continuity in stroke rehabilitation for patients between acute, rehabilitation and community settings in Mayo.

Application to practice:
It is the intention of the authors to offer an evidence-based, interdisciplinary stroke rehabilitation service in Mayo, focused on functional goal attainment and not limited by historical rehabilitation time frames.