Introduction:

The spinal cord injury (SCI) brings devastating consequences from the biological, psychological and social point of view, confronting the person with multiple and complex challenges. A multidisciplinary rehabilitation program should be established since the acute phase, with emphasis on complications prevention, self-care promotion, functional re-education, and social reintegration. The rehabilitation nurse has a relevant role in accompanying the first steps of the autonomy pathways of the person with SCI. This study aims are mapping areas of nursing intervention that promote independence and autonomy in people with SCI in acute and subacute phases.

Methodology:

Scoping review, based on the Joanna Briggs Institute model. The formulation of the research question was based on the acronym PCC (Population, Concept and Context). The articles were extracted from the Web of Science, Scopus, Scielo, PubMed, CINAHL and APA PsycInfo databases, written in Portuguese and English Languages, within the time range 2011 - 2021.

Results:

From the 437 identified studies, they were included in the review 69. Ten categories of nursing intervention areas that promote independence and autonomy in SCI patients were created. The importance of promoting psychological well-being interventions and education programs for the self-care promotion, prevention of complications and safe return home was highlighted.

Conclusion:

To ensure a treatment response that includes an adequate and timely rehabilitation, still in the acute and subacute phases, followed by affordable support services and environment, will help minimizing SCI patients and their family’s life projects disruption. The areas of care to the person with SCI in the acute phase fall within the specific skills of the rehabilitation nurse.

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