Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal

Accession No.:

J71713

Journal:


Assistive Technology

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

, 27, 2, 59-68

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study examined the type and quantity of wheelchair skills training (WST) and adaptive equipment provided by occupational therapists and physical therapists during inpatient spinal cord injury (SCI) and the methods used to determine wheelchair prescriptions. The study also examined the timing of receipt of definitive wheelchairs, and patient satisfaction with and continued utilization of the wheelchair at the one-year injury anniversary. Data were obtained from 1,376 patients enrolled in the SCIRehab project, a research collaboration among 6 SCI Model Systems rehabilitation facilities. While most patients participated in WST, variation in type and frequency were found. Propulsion/driving skills were practiced most frequently. A majority of patients participated in equipment evaluations; assessment/prescription and fitting were performed frequently; mat evaluations were done infrequently. Most patients received mobility equipment in a timely manner; they continued to use their wheelchair and were satisfied with its fit and function at the one-year injury anniversary. High levels of respondent satisfaction with fit and function of wheelchairs suggest clinicians are prescribing mobility devices adequately and accurately supplementing information obtained during equipment assessment and fitting sessions with information from general treatment sessions. Variation in type and frequency of wheelchair training provided by level of SCI and in types of wheelchair prescribed use provides a foundation for future research to relate treatment modalities with functional and participation outcomes.

Author(s):


Taylor, Sally, Gassaway, Julie, Heisler-Varriale, Lauren A., Kozlowski, Allan, Teeter, Laura, Labarbera, Jacqueline, Vargas, Carolyn, Natale, Audrey, Swirsky, Alison

Participating Centers: