Fewer accidents and better maintenance with active wheelchair check-ups: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Hansen, R., Tresse, S., and Gunnarsson, R.K. (2004) Fewer accidents and better maintenance with active wheelchair check-ups: a randomized controlled clinical trial. Clinical Rehabilitation, 18. pp. 631-639.

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Abstract

Objective: To investigate whether active intervention using a compiled checklist for wheelchair check-ups increases user satisfaction and/or decreases accidents, near accidents and pressure sores.

Design: A randomized controlled trial comparing active intervention versus standard intervention for prescribed, manually propelled wheelchairs.

Setting: Patients within primary health care of Bora's and Bollebygd municipalities, a mixed urban and rural population.

Subjects: Users of manually propelled wheelchairs over 16 years of age.

Interventions: The accident rate, extent of pressure sores, number and extent of repairs, reconditioning, adjustments as well as user satisfaction were measured initially and at one year. In the standard intervention, the user and carer were encouraged to initiate contact when necessary. In the active intervention, an occupational therapist performed a scheduled, thorough check-up of the wheelchair, following a compiled checklist for safety, comfort and positioning, manoeuvrability and transportation.

Results: Of 253 registered wheelchair users, 216 were suitable and randomized. In the active intervention group, 99% (95% confidence interval 96 / 100%) of the inspected wheelchairs required maintenance. The incidence of accidents was unchanged in the standard intervention group, but decreased to 'no accidents' in the active intervention group (p / 0.03). User satisfaction was not affected by the active intervention.

Conclusion: Most wheelchair users are unable to determine on their own when adjustments are needed. An active check-up on manually propelled wheelchairs seems to reduce accidents.

Item ID: 30762
Item Type: Article (Research - C1)
ISSN: 1477-0873
Funders: Medical Care Executive Board of the Västra Götaland Region, Swedish Association of Occupational Therapists
Date Deposited: 24 Feb 2014 02:10
FoR Codes: 11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111703 Care for Disabled @ 50%
11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111708 Health and Community Services @ 50%
SEO Codes: 92 HEALTH > 9202 Health and Support Services > 920204 Evaluation of Health Outcomes @ 50%
92 HEALTH > 9202 Health and Support Services > 920201 Allied Health Therapies (excl. Mental Health Services) @ 50%
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