Kelly D. Skinner, DNP, APRN, NP-C, GNP-BC, CRRN, WCC, CFCN

VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 

NOVA Chapter 226

‘Spinal Cord Injury Day’ is celebrated on September 5th every year with the intention to increase awareness amongst the general public. This year’s slogan is “Covid-19 and SCI: Staying well”. According to Spinal Cord Injury Facts and Figures at a Glance , there are approximately 2,940,000 persons with a spinal cord injury living in the United States; about 17,810 new cases each year. The common causes of spinal cord injury are: motor vehicle accidents, falls, acts of violence (primarily gunshot wounds), sports/recreational activities, and medical-surgical complications. Becoming spinal cord injured is considered one of the most traumatic and life-altering events a person will ever face. Spinal cord injury can result in partial or complete paralysis and impaired sensation below the level of the injury with little chance of recovery. There are also other physical, psychosocial, sexual and vocational consequences for the spinal cord injured person, not to mention the economic burden.

Spinal Cord Injury Prevention is a global effort. By increasing awareness and taking precautions to decrease risks, the incidence of spinal cord injury can be diminished. Please enjoy this video created by the International Spinal Cord Society (ISCoS). Feel free to share it with others to help spread the word. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwRdfOEy99w&feature=youtu.be

Nurses working in the specialty of Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) deserve special recognition. Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the compassion and dedication of the NOVA nurses at the VA Boston Healthcare System who continue to carry-out the SCI Center Mission: To promote the health, independence, quality of life, and productivity of Veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders throughout their lives. SCI Nurses are integral members of the rehabilitation team who know the importance of promoting functional independence with this patient-population. They help the SCI Veterans live life to the fullest by encouraging them to never give up, persevere and celebrate every milestone.

Happy Spinal Cord Injury Day!

Special Shout-out to NOVA Nurses Working in SCI at the VA Boston Healthcare System