Abstract Detail

Abstract

Stroke survivors often encounter significant physical and psychological challenges that impact their recovery and rehabilitation. Social support and self-efficacy have been identified as key factors influencing the rehabilitation outcomes in post-stroke patients. This study investigates the social support and self-efficacy among stroke survivors undergoing rehabilitation in a teaching hospital in Malaysia. The study aims to (1) assess the levels of social support and self-efficacy among post-stroke patients, (2) determine the association between sociodemographic and clinical characteristics with social support and self-efficacy, and (3) examine the correlation between social support and self-efficacy.

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 301 post-stroke patients. Data were collected using validated instruments, including the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) to assess social support and the Stroke Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (SSEQ) to measure self-efficacy. The study utilized statistical analyses, including independent t-tests, ANOVA, and correlation tests, to determine associations between social support, self-efficacy, and patient characteristics.

The result showed that the mean of overall social support was high (5.5 ± 1.04), with family and significant others being the primary sources of support, while support from friends was moderate. Self-efficacy levels were moderate (26.86 ± 8.57) overall. Several sociodemographic and clinical factors significantly influenced both social support and self-efficacy. Social support was affected by ethnicity, stroke episodes, stroke and rehabilitation duration, and unhealthy lifestyle. In comparison, self-efficacy was significantly influenced by age, occupational status, stroke episodes, stroke and rehabilitation duration, dependency level, mobility status, types of rehabilitation therapies, and unhealthy lifestyle. A weak but significant positive correlation (r = 0.207, p-value < 0.001) was found between social support and self-efficacy.

In conclusion, the role of social support networks and patient confidence in stroke rehabilitation is crucial. Healthcare providers should integrate social and psychological aspects into care models to enhance rehabilitation outcomes. The study highlights the need for strengthening family involvement and fostering patient confidence to improve recovery process.

Biography

Lim Shi Hui is a final-year Bachelor of Nursing Science student at Universiti Malaya, Malaysia. Originally from Selangor, she has an interest in stroke rehabilitation, patient-centered care, and nursing research. Her recent study explores the impact of social support and self-efficacy in post-stroke patients. She is actively involved in the Nursing Society (NurSoc) of Universiti Malaya, participating in academic and community-based activities. Through her studies and experiences, she hopes to develop her skills in clinical practice and research. She looks forward to gaining more knowledge and contributing to better patient care and rehabilitation efforts in Malaysia.