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Facilitating manual wheelchair skills following lower limb amputation using a group process: A nested mixed methods
Kimberly Charlton1,2, Carolyn Murray3, Rose Boucaut3
1Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Department of Health and Wellbeing, South Australian Government, Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre, Lightsview, South Australia, Australia.
Australian Occupational Therapy Journal
|July 28, 2021
Summary
This pilot study shows that a group wheelchair skills training program significantly improved manual wheelchair performance, confidence, and frequency of use in individuals with lower limb amputations. The training enhanced safety, independence, and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Occupational Therapy
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
Background:
- Manual wheelchair skills are crucial for independence after lower limb amputation.
- Structured training programs can improve wheelchair use and outcomes.
- Group-based interventions offer potential benefits for skill acquisition and support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the outcomes of a group wheelchair skills training program for individuals with lower limb amputations.
- To assess the impact on wheelchair skill performance, confidence, and frequency of use.
- To gather perspectives from participants and facilitators on the training program.
Main Methods:
- A two-phase mixed methods nested design was employed.
- Eleven participants with lower limb amputations received group and one-to-one wheelchair skills training sessions.
- Quantitative measures (Wheelchair Skills Test Questionnaire, Functional Independence Measure, Goal Attainment Scale) and qualitative interviews were used.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in wheelchair skill performance, confidence, and frequency of use post-intervention.
- 91% of participants achieved or exceeded their set goals.
- Qualitative data revealed themes related to motivators, program delivery, safety, and confidence.
Conclusions:
- The Wheelchair Skills Training Program effectively enhances wheelchair performance, confidence, and frequency of use in individuals with lower limb amputations.
- Improved wheelchair skills contribute to enhanced safety, independence, and quality of life.
- Group-based training shows promise as a valuable rehabilitation intervention.
