Goal setting in stroke rehabilitation: A systematic review and qualitative synthesis of the experiences and perspectives of healthcare professionals.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review and qualitative synthesis examined healthcare professionals’ experiences and perspectives on goal setting in stroke rehabilitation. It included eight qualitative or mixed-methods studies published between 1999 and 2020, representing 108 clinicians across rehabilitation disciplines and acute, inpatient and community settings. Thematic synthesis identified three analytical themes: who leads goal setting, balancing hope with reality, and starting with the person rather than the problem. Findings described both directive and collaborative approaches, emotional dimensions within time-limited care, and a commitment to person-centred practice. Confidence in the synthesis findings was assessed as moderate.

Key findings

• Eight studies involving 108 clinicians contributed evidence from acute, inpatient and community stroke rehabilitation settings.
• Three analytical themes concerned leadership in goal setting, balancing hope and reality, and prioritising the person over the problem.
• Healthcare professionals described both directive and collaborative approaches, alongside emotional aspects of goal setting in time-limited contexts.
• Confidence in the thematic synthesis findings was assessed as moderate.

Why it matters

Goal setting is a routine part of stroke rehabilitation, yet this synthesis shows that professionals navigate questions of leadership, emotional expectations and limited time while aiming for person-centred care. Recognising these tensions can help teams reflect on how goals are discussed and whose priorities shape them, without assuming that one approach fits every rehabilitation setting or person.

What to keep in mind

The synthesis included only eight studies, excluded non-English publications, and confidence in its findings was moderate.