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Persistent vegetative state: which sensory-motor variables should the physiotherapist measure?
M Pilon1, S J Sullivan, J Coulombe
1Ecole de Réadaptation, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada.
Brain Injury
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Physical therapists identified key sensory-motor assessment items for patients in a persistent vegetative state (PVS). This research aims to develop a standardized evaluation tool for PVS patients, improving physical therapy care.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Physical Therapy
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Persistent vegetative state (PVS) presents challenges for assessing sensory-motor capacities.
- Standardized assessment tools are needed for effective physical therapy interventions in PVS patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a consensus among physical therapists on core items for assessing sensory-motor capacities in PVS patients.
- To inform the development of a quantitative assessment instrument for PVS patients.
Main Methods:
- Modified Delphi technique involving 28 experienced physical therapists.
- Two rounds of item identification and rating (105 items reduced to 20 categories, then 14 key variables).
Main Results:
- Fourteen variables were identified as 'extremely' or 'very important' for PVS patient evaluation.
- Key variables include tonus, voluntary movement on request, postural reactions, passive range of motion, and tolerance to verticalization.
Conclusions:
- The identified core items provide a foundation for a new quantitative assessment instrument.
- This instrument will aid physical therapists in evaluating and managing PVS patients more effectively.