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The wheelchair skills test, version 2.4: Validity of an algorithm-based questionnaire version
Anita D Mountain1, R Lee Kirby, Cher Smith
1Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|March 20, 2004
Summary
The Wheelchair Skills Test Questionnaire (WST-Q) accurately assesses manual wheelchair skills, showing strong correlations with objective testing. This algorithm-based tool is valuable for screening or when direct assessment is difficult.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Science
- Assistive Technology
- Clinical Assessment
Background:
- Manual wheelchair skills are crucial for user independence and community participation.
- Objective assessment tools like the Wheelchair Skills Test (WST) are valuable but can be time-consuming.
- Developing efficient and valid assessment methods is essential for rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the validity of an algorithm-based questionnaire, the Wheelchair Skills Test Questionnaire (WST-Q), in assessing manual wheelchair skills.
- To compare the WST-Q's performance against the objective WST (version 2.4).
Main Methods:
- A within-participant design was employed at a rehabilitation center.
- Twenty wheelchair users with diverse mobility impairments and experience levels participated.
- Participants completed three versions of the WST-Q (knowledge, visual-aid, perceived-ability) followed by the objective WST.
Main Results:
- The WST-Q versions demonstrated high concurrent validity with the objective WST, with strong positive correlations (r=0.83 to 0.91).
- The categorical perceived-ability version (WST-Q [PA]) showed significant agreement with the WST.
- Individual skill score agreement ranged from 55% to 100%.
Conclusions:
- The algorithm-based WST-Q is a valid tool for assessing overall manual wheelchair skills in users with varied experience.
- The WST-Q shows excellent concurrent validity compared to objective WST assessments.
- The WST-Q can serve as an effective screening tool or alternative when objective testing is not feasible.