The utilization of medical aids and appliances prescribed to paediatric patients

Medical appliances issued to patients attending the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Cape Town, were not appropriately used in a significant proportion of cases. Only one-third of those receiving various types of medical footwear, the most commonly ordered appliances, used these properly. On the other hand, wheelchairs and buggies were mostly used in the proper manner. Aspects of the inappropriate use of appliances are highlighted.