Peer support as pressure ulcer prevention strategy in special school learners with paraplegia

Background: Adults with spinal cord injuries perceived peer support as beneficial in preventing secondary health conditions, but the role of peer support among adolescent learners with paraplegia in special schools is still unknown. Objectives: To explore the perspectives of current and previous learners with paraplegia on peer support to prevent pressure ulcers in a special school. Method: A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive study design was used. The authors conducted 12 semi-structured telephonic, audio-recorded interviews and a focus group discussion with current and previous learners with paraplegia attending a special school. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and translated, and data were organised using the Nvivo-12 Pro program. Through conducting an inductive thematic analysis categories, sub-themes and themes were identified from the participants’ narratives. Results: The participants’ perspectives included positive and challenging aspects of peer support reflected in four sub-themes: group-based support, individual peer mentoring, challenges with peer support and the roles of the school physiotherapist regarding peer support. Conclusion: Learners saw peer support as a crucial strategy in preventing and reducing pressure ulcers. Establishing a peer support system with group and individual components in special schools could be a game-changer to end pressure ulcers among learners with paraplegia and ensure better health and educational outcomes. Clinical implications: Physiotherapists in special schools should support peer support initiatives among learners with paraplegia to ensure successful pressure ulcer prevention.