The functional impact of a traumatic hand injury on people who live in rural and remote locations

Kingston, Gail, Tanner, Bronwyn, and Gray, Marion Alexandra (2010) The functional impact of a traumatic hand injury on people who live in rural and remote locations. Disability and Rehabilitation, 32 (4). pp. 326-335.

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Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to gain an understanding of the functional impact of a traumatic hand injury on a rural and remote Australian population. Method: A retrospective, exploratory design was used. Patients who had experienced a traumatic hand injury were samples and were treated at the occupational therapy department at a major regional Australian hospital between January 2003 and February 2007 (n=198). A mail-out survey was utilized, with 65 respondents included in the study. Questions focused on the impact on specific areas of occupational performance and on compliance to home exercises. The upper extremity functional index was also incorporated in the survey. Results: The results revealed that almost 90% of survey respondents had residual difficulties as a result of the traumatic hand injury. The overall impact these difficulties have on ‘day-to-day’ life was moderate to extreme for over half of the respondents. In the areas of occupational performance, the most affected were work and leisure with less impact reported in self-care and rest. Comments were at times contrary with closed question data, with many respondents expressing relative satisfaction with their outcome despite highlighting the functional difficulties. Conclusion: A significant impact on occupational performance has been highlighted, which reflects common issues within this rural and remote population. Confirmation of the extent of these identified issues within the larger rural and remote Australian population will contribute to the formulation of policy and consequent improvements in health for this traditionally underserved population.

Item ID: 11714
Item Type: Article (Research - C1)
ISSN: 1464-5165
Keywords: hand injury; rurality; Australia
Date Deposited: 09 Aug 2010 01:27
FoR Codes: 11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1199 Other Medical and Health Sciences > 119999 Medical and Health Sciences not elsewhere classified @ 100%
SEO Codes: 92 HEALTH > 9202 Health and Support Services > 920201 Allied Health Therapies (excl. Mental Health Services) @ 100%
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