Article

OBJECTIVE: To understand the circumstances surrounding the worst fall experienced
by power wheelchair users in the past year and to examine injuries sustained and
recovery methods. DESIGN: A qualitative study using a semi-structured interview.
PARTICIPANTS: A self-selected volunteer sample of 19 power
wheelchair users who utilize their device for at least 75% of mobility. The most
common disability represented was cerebral palsy ( n = 8). The mean (SD) age of
participants was 41.9 (7.6) years, who lived with their disability for a mean
(SD) of 20.5 (8.62) years and used their current device for a mean (SD) of 3.9
(1.9) years. INTERVENTION: None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: A semi-structured
interview examined the circumstances surrounding the worst fall experienced in
the past year, injuries sustained and recovery techniques used. RESULTS: Upon
examination of the circumstances of the worst fall, four main themes emerged: (1)
action-related fall contributors, (2) location of falls, (3) fall attributions
and (4) time of fall. Each fall described was found to involve multiple factors.
As a result of the fall, participants also reported the occurrence of physical
injuries and a fear of falling. Physical injuries ranged from skin abrasion and
bruises to fractures and head injuries. Participants also reported that fear of
falling diminished their desire to participation in activities they enjoyed
doing. Finally, most participants reported the need for physical assistance to
recover from a fall. CONCLUSION: Participant descriptions provide an in-depth
description of the circumstances and aftermath of falls experienced by power
wheelchair users.
- Chutes

Langue : ANGLAIS