Quality of Life and Spiritual Health in Motorcycle Accident Survivors: An Analysis Using the SF-36 Questionnaire and Spiritual Scale

Abstract

Motorcycle traffic accidents rate remained high in Taiwan letting post-trauma care an imperative issue. This study investigates the spiritual, psychological, and physical impacts of motorcycle traffic accidents in Taiwan, focusing on the role of the Injury Severity Score (ISS) in influencing quality of life (QOL) and spiritual well-being outcomes, aiming to enhance holistic recovery strategies for trauma survivors. A prospective study was conducted from April 2022 to March 2024 in a level I trauma center. Patients aged 20 and above with trauma from motorcycle accidents were enrolled and divided into major (ISS ≥ 16) and non-major (ISS < 16) trauma groups. QOL and spiritual health were assessed using 36-item short-form general health survey measures (SF-36) and spiritual scale before discharge and six months later. Of 98 patients, we observed significant post-discharge declines in both physical and mental QOL scores, regardless of ISS. However, spiritual scores improved significantly after discharge, with notable enhancements in interpersonal relationships and adversity transcendence observed in patients with ISS < 16, but not in those with ISS ≥ 16. SF-36 analysis revealed that non-religious groups experienced significant declines in mental health scores post-discharge, unlike religious groups, which remained stable. Additionally, religious individuals showed significant post-discharge improvements in interpersonal relationships and adversity transcendence, while non-religious showed no improvement. This suggests a beneficial link between religious adherence and enhanced spiritual well-being. Motorcycle accidents reduce QOL and heighten spiritual needs for survivors, regardless of accident severity categorized by ISS score. Integrating spirituality into rehabilitation processes can positively impact overall well-being. Holistic care, addressing physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs, is vital for optimizing long-term recovery and improving prognosis in trauma survivors, especially in regions with high rates of traffic accidents like Taiwan.