Abstract Number: Esoc2026a688 Embedding Supported Self-Management in Complex Inpatient Stroke Rehabilitation: Insights From an Interdisciplinary Service Evaluation in Ireland

Abstract Background and aims Self-management support (SMS) is a core component of post-stroke care and is recommended in European stroke guidelines. However, limited evidence exists on how SMS is implemented within complex inpatient stroke rehabilitation, particularly from the perspectives of healthcare professionals delivering care. Aim To explore whether, and in what ways, healthcare professionals support stroke survivors with complex neurological presentations to develop self-management skills within a specialist inpatient stroke rehabilitation service in Ireland. Methods A qualitative descriptive service evaluation was conducted using a pragmatic approach. Semi-structured interviews were completed with 14 purposively sampled healthcare professionals from an interdisciplinary specialist stroke rehabilitation team. Data were analysed using inductive qualitative content analysis. Results Five key categories were identified: clinician perspectives on self-management; SMS elements embedded in practice; the influence of patient complexity on delivery; interdisciplinary approaches; and continuity of self-management after discharge. Clinicians viewed self-management as an important rehabilitation outcome but reported variable understanding and confidence in delivering SMS, particularly for patients with cognitive, communication and psychosocial impairments. SMS components including collaborative goal setting, problem-solving and skill practice were evident but largely informal and inconsistently delivered. While interdisciplinary collaboration was considered essential, barriers included limited role clarity, time constraints and lack of formal training. Continuity of self-management post-discharge was further challenged by gaps in community services and reliance on family support. Conclusions Structured and sustainable SMS remains difficult to implement in complex inpatient stroke rehabilitation. Interdisciplinary training, clearer guidance and stronger discharge pathways are needed to align practice with guideline recommendations and support long-term outcomes for stroke survivors. Conflict of interest "Siobhán Kerr: nothing to disclose"