British study - The Etac Patient Turner

An evaluation of equipment to assist patient sit-to-stand activities in physiotherapy..

Presented to the University of Wales in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Physiotherapy, October 2001

Abstract

Sit-to-stand (STS) activities have been identified as a major cause of back pain to healthcare staff in handling situations. Whilst equipment use has been extensively addressed in the care situation, very few studies have considered physiotherapy treatment activities. The aim of this study was to question whether equipment can effectively be used to replace the manually assisted rising component of patient sit-to-stand activities during physiotherapy treatment programmes.

Ten physiotherapists evaluated four different equipment designs (chair lifter, patient turner, walking harness and standing hoist) with eight patients, who were assessed as unable to stand without physical assistance. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected from the physiotherapists.

The differences between the equipment conditions were not significant for perceived rate of exertion (p=0.169), stability (p=0.170), ease of use (p=0.493), effectiveness (p=0.570) or postural analysis (p=0.635). Further analysis of the significant difference for duration of task (p<0.001) demonstrated a statistical difference in time between the equipment recommended in the focus group for early rehabilitation (Encore and Walking Harness) and functional activities (Chair Lifter and Patient Turner). Physiotherapists recommended a variable speed option to enable them to meet identified treatment needs of individual patients, preferred ceiling mounted hoists for walking harnesses and suggested that carryover of treatment could be enhanced by equipment use in functional situations. The equipment was seen by patients as desirable to assist functional activities, and necessary for treatment activities.

The findings suggest that equipment can be used to replace or assist STS, and thus reduce the risk of work-related injury. Preference was given however for complementing rather than replacing existing manual methods to facilitate normal movement patterns and maximise patient participation. Further studies are indicated to provide more specific guidance on equipment and patient selection criteria, treatment progression and effect of equipment use on physiotherapists' posture.

continue . . .