Article

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) routinely use assistive equipment
to improve their independence. Specialist equipment is expensive and therefore
not always available to the child when needed. The aim of this study was to
determine whether the assistive equipment needs of children with CP and the
associated costs could be predicted. METHOD:
A cross-sectional study using a
chart audit was completed.
Two hundred forty-two children met eligibility
criteria and were included in the study. Data abstracted from files pertained to
the child's CP, associated impairments and assistive equipment prescribed. The
findings were generated using linear regression modelling. RESULTS: Gross Motor
Function Classification System (GMFCS) level [B = 3.01 (95% CI, 2.36-3.57), p =
0.000] and the presence of epilepsy [B = 2.35 (95% CI, 0.64-4.06), p = 0.008]
predicted the prescription of assistive equipment. The more severely affected the
gross motor function impairment, the more equipment that was required and the
more the equipment cost. INTERPRETATION: The equipment needs of children with CP
can be predicted for the duration of childhood. This information may be useful
for families and for budget and service planning.

Langue : ANGLAIS