An interview study for developing a user guide for powered seating function usage

Abstract

Purpose: Powered seating functions (PSFs) provide powered wheelchair users an independent means to adjust posture dynamically. To facilitate the best use of PSFs in daily living, we conducted this structured interview study to develop a preliminary user guide to provide “take-home” information to powered wheelchair users. Method: An internally developed questionnaire to assess clinical recommendations of PSF usage was administered in an interview format to clinical seating and mobility specialists. A qualitative analysis was applied to codify the recommendations, and the findings were transformed into a PSF user guide. Results: Specific but varied seating positions and temporal indications were recommended for performing pressure relief positioning. For several activities, appropriate seating positions should be determined according to the immediate physical condition of the user and/or the environmental settings. Conclusion: The methods and positions of using PSFs should be determined with consideration for individual preferences, physical condition, environmental setting, and desired tasks after thorough clinical seating assessments. Precautions about positioning and driving safety, and the importance of discussing with clinicians are emphasized in the user guide. This PSF user guide will be updated after more scientific evidence accumulates and be structurally evaluated for its face and content validity in the future.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• Powered seating functions (PSFs) can be used to assist with many daily activities and health management.

• The methods and positions of using PSFs should be determined with consideration for individual preferences, physical condition, environmental setting, and desired tasks after thorough clinical seating assessments.

• Precautions about driving safety and sitting stability affected by changes in the seating angles should be emphasized in user education and training.

• Educational material
• legrest elevation
• patient education
• power wheelchair
• recline
• seat elevation
• tilt
• training

Acknowledgements

The authors thank the faculty, staff, and students at the Human Engineering Research Laboratories, and the ATPs in the CAT for their time and generous contributions.