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Kirby RL, Smith C, Miller MD, Osmond D, Sherman MA, Parker K, Koto PS, Theriault CJ, Sandila N. Wheelchair skills training for caregivers of manual wheelchair users: a randomized controlled trial comparing self-study and remote training. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38420947 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2024.2321272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
In this single-blind randomized controlled trial, we tested the hypotheses that, in comparison with control participants receiving only self-study materials (SS group), caregivers of manual wheelchair users who additionally receive remote training (RT group) have greater total Wheelchair Skills Test Questionnaire (WST-Q) performance and confidence scores post-training and at follow-up; and that self-study and remote training each individually lead to such gains. We studied 23 dyads of wheelchair users and their caregivers. Caregivers in the SS group received a handbook and videorecording. Those in the RT group also received up to four real-time ("synchronous") sessions remotely. The WST-Q 5.1 was administered pre-training (T1), post-training (T2), and after a 3-month follow-up (T3). The mean total WST-Q scores of both groups rose slightly at each new assessment. For the T2-T1 and T3-T1 gains, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups for either WST-Q performance or WST-Q confidence. For performance, the T2-T1 gain was statistically significant for the RT group and the T3-T2 gain was statistically significant for the SS group. For both groups, the T3-T1 gains in performance were statistically significant with gains of 12.9% and 18.5% relative to baseline for the SS and RT groups. For confidence, only the T3-T1 gain for the SS group was statistically significant with a gain of 4.5% relative to baseline. Although less than the gains previously reported for in-person training, modest but important gains in total WST-Q performance scores can be achieved by self-study, with or without remote training. REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03856749.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Lee Kirby
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Cher Smith
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Canada
| | | | - Dee Osmond
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Canada
| | | | - Kim Parker
- Assistive Technology Program, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Canada
| | | | | | - Navjot Sandila
- Research Methods Unit, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Canada
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Labbé D, Yao DG, Miller WC, Routhier F, Rushton PW, Demers L, Mortenson WB. Positive and negative experiences of caregivers helping power wheelchair users: a mixed-method study. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38341650 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2024.2313080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to better understand how the powered wheelchair (PWC) impacts the experiences of family caregivers of PWC users, and explore the strategies and resources used by caregivers to cope with their role. MATERIALS AND METHODS This mixed-methods study was part of a larger cross-sectional research study conducted in four Canadian cities. Twenty-three family caregivers of PWC users, who provided at least 2 h of support per week, completed the Power Mobility Caregiver Assistive Technology Outcome (PM-CATOM), an 18-item measure assessing PWC-related and overall burden experienced by family caregivers. We also conducted semi-structured interviews and analysed them using inductive content analysis. RESULTS From the quantitative PM-CATOM results, the caregivers perceived low level of burden for the wheelchair-related items, (Median:4.5; Range 3 to 5). Most perceived burden when physically helping the wheelchair user and when providing verbal hints. In terms of overall help, the caregivers experienced some level of burden (Median 3.5: Range 3 to 5). Most caregivers identified burden associated with the limitation to their recreational and/or leisure activities (52.2%) and feeling that they have more to do than they can handle. We identified 3 themes in the interviews: the burden experiences of caring for PWC users, the positive experiences of caregiving, and the coping strategies and resources used by caregivers of PWC users. CONCLUSION Our study showed that understanding the experiences of caregivers of AT users is central as they are directly and indirectly impacted by the PWC in their lives and caregiving roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Labbé
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Rehabilitation Research Lab, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Daryl G Yao
- Department of Disability and Human Development, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - William C Miller
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Rehabilitation Research Lab, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- ICORD Research Center, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - François Routhier
- Department of Rehabilitation, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
- Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en réadaptation et en intégration sociale (CIRRIS), Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Paula W Rushton
- School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- CHU Sainte Justine Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Louise Demers
- School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de recherche de l'institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - W Ben Mortenson
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Rehabilitation Research Lab, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- ICORD Research Center, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Manocha RHK, Best KL, Charette C, Curlock H, Sigfusson M, Faure C, Miller WC, Routhier F. Walking aid training as a clinical competence in Canadian entry-to-practice professional academic programs. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024; 19:112-119. [PMID: 35510304 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2022.2070675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Multiple healthcare professionals fit walking aids (WA) and train individuals on their use. The purpose of this investigation was to describe curricula on WA fitting and training in Canadian entry-to-practice professional programs. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online survey was administered to leads from all accredited programs (n = 199). Seventeen questions asked about the importance of WA education, instructional methods and time dedicated to WA fitting and skills training, and how the pandemic had affected WA curriculum delivery. RESULTS Responses were received from 97 programs. While most occupational therapy (OT, 8/15), physiatry (PM&R, 5/9), and physical therapy (PT, 12/19) trainees received more than 3 h of instruction on WA fitting, most nursing (29/40) and pharmacy (7/8) programs spent less than 3 h on this topic. Most OT (9/15) and PT (15/19) programs spent more than 3 h on WA skills training whereas most nursing (25/40), pharmacy (4/8), and PM&R (5/9) programs spent less than 3 h on this subject. Across all programs, 52% educated students on adapting activities of daily living for WA while 18% provided education on WA maintenance and repair. Only 19/89 programs consulted a formal WA skills training resource for curriculum development. Seventeen of 55 programs modified their WA curricula due to the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS There is a wide range in curricular approaches to WA education in Canadian professional programs. This highlights the need for a standardised WA education program to guide curricular development to ultimately improve safe WA use for clients with short- and long-term mobility impairments.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONCurricula on walking aids is extremely variable within and between programs.Navigating terrains, adapting activities of daily living, and maintenance are poorly taught.There is a need for a national standardized curriculum on walking aids.This curriculum should be modular and designed for practitioners, students, and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranita H K Manocha
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Krista L Best
- Département de réadaptation, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Laval, Canada
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec City, Canada
| | - Caroline Charette
- Département de réadaptation, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Laval, Canada
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec City, Canada
| | - Hannah Curlock
- O'Brien Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Merissa Sigfusson
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Céline Faure
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec City, Canada
| | - William C Miller
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - François Routhier
- Département de réadaptation, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Laval, Canada
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec City, Canada
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Kirby RL, Smith C, Parker K, Theriault CJ, Sandila N. Practices and views of wheelchair service providers regarding wheelchair-skills training for clients and their caregivers: a global online survey. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2023; 18:1146-1153. [PMID: 34706198 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2021.1989505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the extent to which wheelchair service providers conduct wheelchair-skills training, the nature of training, and the providers' perceptions on training. MATERIALS AND METHODS Anonymous global online survey consisting of 29 questions administered via the REDCap electronic data-capture tool to English-speaking wheelchair service providers. RESULTS We received 309 responses from wheelchair service providers in 35 countries. Of the respondents who responded to the question "…do you typically provide wheelchair-skills training…?" 227 (81.6%) reported "yes, always" or "yes, usually" for clients and 213 (81.9%) for caregivers. The median duration of training sessions for clients and caregivers was 45 and 30 min; the median number of sessions was 2 for both. Regarding the importance of training, 251 (94.4%) answered "very important" for clients and 201 (78.5%) for caregivers. For clients and caregivers, 182 (68.4%) and 191 (74.3%) of respondents considered themselves adequately prepared for the trainer role. A variety of barriers and facilitators to training were identified. CONCLUSIONS Most wheelchair service providers report that they provide wheelchair-skills training for clients and their caregivers, most consider such training to be important and most consider themselves adequately prepared for the training role. However, the amount of training is generally minimal. Further efforts are needed to address the identified barriers to training.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONMost wheelchair-service providers report that they provide wheelchair-skills training.Most consider such training to be important.Most consider themselves adequately prepared.However, the extent of training is generally minimal.These findings have implications for clinicians, educators, and policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Lee Kirby
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Cher Smith
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Canada
| | - Kim Parker
- Assistive Technology Program, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Canada
| | | | - Navjot Sandila
- Research Methods Unit, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Canada
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Best K, Smith E, Pellichero A, Sorita E, Archambault P, Kenyon L, Lamontagne ME, Lemelin B, Kirby RL, Routhier F. International research priorities on the role of cognition in power mobility device use: In pursuit of informed clinical practices and knowledge translation. Assist Technol 2021; 35:119-126. [PMID: 34293271 DOI: 10.1080/10400435.2021.1956638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognition is an important factor affecting power mobility device (PMD) use. However, a gap in knowledge on the role of cognition in PMD use limits evidence of best practices for screening, assessment, and training. The overall goal of this research activity was to identify strategic research priorities to delineate the next steps in research. Following the Collaborative Prioritized Planning Process (CP3), a 1.5-day meeting was held with an interdisciplinary and international team of assistive technology users, clinicians, service providers, and researchers with expertise in PMD use and cognition. Our four-stage process included: knowledge synthesis; identification and prioritization of challenges; identification, consolidation, and prioritization of solutions; and action planning. Five of 14 challenges for research on cognition and PMD use were prioritized, and five solutions (of the 100 generated) perceived to be the most impactful were selected as the focus for the remainder of the meeting. The resulting prioritized solutions included, improving knowledge translation of existing and new evidence, profiling and addressing individualized needs, creating and evaluating training tools, development of practice guidelines, and validating and developing evaluation tools or toolkit. Preliminary action planning facilitated discussion of potential future projects, initiated new research collaborations and partnerships, and provided a foundation to build a program of research for investigating the role of cognition in PMD use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista Best
- Department of Rehabilitation, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris), Quebec, QC, Canada.,Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Emma Smith
- Assisted Living and Learning (ALL) Institute, Maynooth University, National University of Ireland Maynooth, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Alice Pellichero
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris), Quebec, QC, Canada.,Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Eric Sorita
- Rehabilitation Medicine Unit, University Hospital of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Philippe Archambault
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Lisa Kenyon
- Physical Therapy, Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Marie-Eve Lamontagne
- Department of Rehabilitation, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris), Quebec, QC, Canada.,Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bruno Lemelin
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - R Lee Kirby
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Francois Routhier
- Department of Rehabilitation, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris), Quebec, QC, Canada.,Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec City, Quebec, Canada
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Udupa S, Kamat VR, Menassa CC. Shared autonomy in assistive mobile robots: a review. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2021:1-22. [PMID: 34133906 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2021.1928778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Shared autonomy has played a major role in assistive mobile robotics as it has the potential to effectively balance user satisfaction and smooth functioning of systems by adapting itself to each user's needs and preferences. Many shared control paradigms have been developed over the years. However, despite these advancements, shared control paradigms have not been widely adopted as there are several integral aspects that have not fully matured. The purpose of this paper is to discuss and review various aspects of shared control and the technologies leading up to the current advancements in shared control for assistive mobile robots. METHODS A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted following a dichotomy of studies from the pre-2000 and the post-2000 periods to focus on both the early developments and the current state of the art in this domain. RESULTS A systematic review of 135 research papers and 7 review papers selected from the literature was conducted. To facilitate the organization of the reviewed work, a 6-level ladder categorization was developed based on the extent of autonomy shared between the human and the robot in the use of assistive mobile robots. This taxonomy highlights the chronological improvements in this domain. CONCLUSION It was found that most prior studies have focussed on basic functionalities, thus paving the way for research to now focus on the higher levels of the ladder taxonomy. It was concluded that further research in the domain must focus on ensuring safety in mobility and adaptability to varying environments.Implications for rehabilitationShared autonomy in assistive mobile robots plays a vital role in effectively adapting to ensure safety while also considering the user comfort.User's immediate desires should be considered in decision making to ensure that the users are in control of the assistive robots.The current focus of research should be towards successful adaptation of the assistive mobile robots to varying environments to assure safety of the user.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumukha Udupa
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Robotics Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Vineet R Kamat
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Robotics Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Carol C Menassa
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Robotics Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Greenhalgh M, Rigot S, Eckstein S, Joseph J, Cooper RM, Cooper RA. A consumer assessment of women who use wheelchairs. JOURNAL OF MILITARY, VETERAN AND FAMILY HEALTH 2021. [DOI: 10.3138/jmvfh-2020-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
LAY SUMMARY Female Veterans and female athletes with disabilities express concerns with mobility devices that are male-centric and do not address their unique needs. It is important that the needs of women are given the same attention as those of men. The following study asked groups of women who use wheelchairs or scooters, including Veterans and athletes, about their experiences. Twenty-four women, recruited from two sporting events for Veterans with disabilities, were asked to fill out a survey and participate in a focus group where they would discuss their views on mobility aids and related services. There were four major themes women often mentioned when they talked about using their mobility aids: usability (how they like using it), service delivery (how they get help with it), well-being (how they feel), and design (how it looks and works). Participants were concerned about the ability to adjust their device to their needs, how people obtained a device, and how they felt about using the device. Female wheelchair and scooter users recommended several changes to mobility aids that would improve the devices and improve the lives of women who use them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Greenhalgh
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Stephanie Rigot
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Stacy Eckstein
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - James Joseph
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Rosemarie M. Cooper
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Center of Assistive Technology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Rory A. Cooper
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
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Greenhalgh M, Blaauw E, Deepak N, St Laurent COLM, Cooper R, Bendixen R, Koontz AM, Cooper RA. Usability and task load comparison between a robotic assisted transfer device and a mechanical floor lift during caregiver assisted transfers on a care recipient. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2020; 17:833-839. [PMID: 32988254 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2020.1818137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The RATD represents a novel methodology to reduce strain, manoeuvring, and cognitive load a caregiver experiences when conducting transfers on a mannequin. However, caregivers who used this new technology report suggested adjustments regarding the robot's human machine interface and shape as to improve transfer efficiency and comfort for care recipients. The purpose of this study was to test a redesigned RATD and compare its ergonomics during a transfer to those of a mechanical floor lift. METHODS This was cross sectional protocol. As opposed to prior research which used a mannequin, caregivers in this study (N = 28) partnered with, and transferred, a mobility device user (N = 28) at three unique surfaces. Information about task demand and usability was collected from surveys after use of each device at each surface. RESULTS Results indicated reduced physical demand (p = .004) and discomfort frequency (p = .01) in caregivers conducting the transfers with the RATD compared to the mechanical floor lift. Care recipients reported no significant differences between both transfer devices. Critiques with the interface, the harness and sling, and the robot's rigidity indicated more work is needed before introducing this technology to a larger market. Conclusions: The RATD represents a promising new intervention for transferring and handling care recipients who use wheelchairs. However, while caregivers report reduced physical demand and discomfort, more work is required to advance the ease of the human machine interface, the amount of space allowed for the robot to operate, and the ability of the care recipient to operate the technology independently.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONCaregivers report significant physical and mental stress while transferring clients in and out of a wheelchair.Clinical standard transfer equipment is limited in the space which it can be used.Robots, particularly those portable and powered, have the ability to not only make the transfer experience safer, but also expand the applications this equipment can provide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Greenhalgh
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, US Department of Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Eline Blaauw
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, US Department of Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nikitha Deepak
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, US Department of Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - C O L Matthew St Laurent
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda Naval Station, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda Naval Station, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rosemarie Cooper
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, US Department of Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Center of Assistive Technology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Roxanna Bendixen
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Alicia M Koontz
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, US Department of Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rory A Cooper
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, US Department of Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Center of Assistive Technology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Kirby RL, Smith C, Parker K, Han L, Theriault CJ, Doucette SP. Practices and views of occupational therapists in Nova Scotia regarding wheelchair-skills training for clients and their caregivers: an online survey. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2020; 15:773-780. [PMID: 32255698 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2020.1749890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To determine the extent to which Occupational Therapists (OTs) in Nova Scotia (NS) conduct wheelchair skills training, the nature of training and the OTs' perceptions on training.Materials and methods: Anonymous online survey.Results: We received 110 responses from OTs living in NS and involved in direct patient care, 96 (93%) of whom reported helping clients obtain manual wheelchairs. Of the OTs who responded to the question "…do you typically provide wheelchair-skills training…?", 40 (43.5%) answered "Yes, usually" for clients and 40 (46.0%) for caregivers. The median duration of training sessions for clients and caregivers was 30 and 20 min; the median number of sessions was 2 and 1. Regarding the importance of training, 65 (73.9%) OTs answered "Very important" and 22 (25%) "Somewhat important" for clients and 55 (64.0%) answered "Very important" and 29 (33.7%) "Somewhat important" for caregivers. About one-third of OTs considered themselves adequately prepared for the trainer role. A variety of barriers and facilitators to training were identified. Trainers were significantly more likely than non-trainers to consider wheelchair skills training as important (p = .0003 for clients and p = .0039 for caregivers) and to consider themselves adequately prepared for the trainer role (p = .002 for clients and .003 for caregivers).Conclusions: Only a minority of NS OTs usually provide wheelchair-skills training for clients or their caregivers and the training provided is minimal, despite a majority who consider such training to be important. Only about one-third of OTs feel prepared for the training role.Implications for rehabilitationOnly a minority of Occupational Therapists (OTs) in Nova Scotia, Canada usually provide wheelchair-skills training for clients or their caregivers.The training that is provided is minimal.A majority of OTs consider such training to be important.Only about one-third of OTs feel prepared for the training role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Lee Kirby
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Cher Smith
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Canada
| | - Kim Parker
- Department of Assistive Technology Program, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Canada
| | - Lu Han
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Canada
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Greenhalgh M, Matthew Landis J, Brown J, Kulich H, Bass S, Alqahtani S, Deepak N, Cryzter TM, Grindle G, Koontz AM, Cooper RA. Assessment of Usability and Task Load Demand Using a Robot-Assisted Transfer Device Compared With a Hoyer Advance for Dependent Wheelchair Transfers. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2019; 98:729-734. [PMID: 31318755 PMCID: PMC6649685 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Manual lifting can be burdensome for people who care for power wheelchair users. Although technologies used for dependent transfers are helpful, they have shortcomings of their own. This study compares the usability and task load demand of a novel robot-assisted transfer device to a clinical standard when performing dependent transfers. DESIGN A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess caregivers (N = 21) transferring a 56-kg mannequin with the Strong Arm and Hoyer Advance at three transfer locations. Feedback was gathered through qualitative surveys. RESULTS Usability was significant in multiple areas important for transfers. Caregiver fatigue and discomfort intensity were reduced, and the Strong Arm was preferred at the three transfer locations. Device ease and efficiency favored Strong Arm at two stations as was discomfort frequency. In addition, physical demand, frustration, and effort were significantly lower using Strong Arm compared with the Hoyer Advance. CONCLUSIONS Compared with the Hoyer, participants favored Strong Arm for transfer usability and task load demand. However, further Strong Arm developments are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Greenhalgh
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Technology, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - James Matthew Landis
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Joshua Brown
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Hailee Kulich
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Technology, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Sarah Bass
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Technology, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Saleh Alqahtani
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Technology, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Nikitha Deepak
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | | | - Garrett Grindle
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Technology, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Alicia M. Koontz
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Technology, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Rory A. Cooper
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Technology, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
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