Experience-based Modifications of the Bed Band ReAlised through Co-dEsign (EMBRACE).

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Assistive Technology
• Patient Care Innovation

Background:

• Upper body limitations are common in neurological conditions like stroke and multiple sclerosis.
• Effective bed positioning is crucial for comfort and independence in patients with limited mobility.
• The Bed Band is a novel, nurse-led device designed to aid positional support in bed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To co-design and implement adaptations for the Bed Band prototype.
• To develop user instructions for enhanced product design and future development.

Main Methods:

• A co-design approach involving academic and industry partners.
• Online focus groups with expert stakeholders and product testing by healthy volunteers in a simulation suite.
• Thematic analysis of data, sense-checking by experts, and prioritization of adaptations using a modified Delphi technique.

Main Results:

• Analysis revealed three key themes: reaction to the Bed Band, potential risks and mitigation, and product adaptations.
• The Bed Band's simplicity was identified as a strength, facilitating easy positional support.
• Adaptations led to an enhanced prototype for future clinical testing.

Conclusions:

• Co-design facilitated early identification of risks and mitigation strategies for the Bed Band prototype.
• Priority adaptations were identified, leading to an improved design.
• Further research is needed to evaluate the Bed Band's efficacy in patient populations with upper mobility issues.