Environmental control systems: recommendations based on users’ experience

Michele Verdonck; Gill Chard

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Environmental control systems: recommendations based on users’ experience

Conference paper

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Environmental control systems: recommendations based on users’ experience

Michele Verdonck and Gill Chard

Proceedings of the 2014 Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association National Conference, pp.1-8

Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association (ARATA) National Conference: Actively Choosing Technology, 2014 (Canberra, Australia, 20-Aug-2014–22-Aug-2014)

Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association

2014

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Abstract

Public Health and Health Services

Environmental Control Systems (ECS)

Electronic Aids to Daily Living (EADL)

tetraplegia

qualitative

non-use

users' perspective

Purpose: This paper translates research findings from an exploration of the users' perspective on living with Environmental Control Systems (ECS) into real world implications and recommendations. Method: The experiences of ECS in Irish people with high spinal cord injuries (SCI) were explored in a qualitative multiphase study. The studies included three focus groups (n=15); a single pilot study and an 8-week ECS trial involving six in-depth interviews. Findings from each phase are summarised and combined. Findings: Cumulative findings from all phases provide seven practical implications. 1) ECS need to be made available to people with SCI. 2) Barriers to provision and unrealistic expectations need to be addressed. 3) ECS use must be established as an early habit. 4) ECS are an occupational therapist's responsibility. 5) An ECS starter pack is viable. 6) ECS cannot be considered in isolation of other technology. 7) Non-use is a realistic and expected outcome for some. Conclusions: Exploring the users' perspective has produced seven practical implications, which provide the basis of recommendations for improved provision and sustained ECS use. Recommendations span both rehabilitation and community living settings. This paper overtly translates research findings into useful clinical information.

Details

Title: Environmental control systems: recommendations based on users’ experience
Authors: Michele Verdonck (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
Gill Chard (Author) - AMPS-ESI UK & Ireland
Publication details: Proceedings of the 2014 Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association National Conference, pp.1-8
Conference details: Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association (ARATA) National Conference: Actively Choosing Technology, 2014 (Canberra, Australia, 20-Aug-2014–22-Aug-2014)
Publisher: Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association
Date published: 2014
Organisation Unit: School of Health and Sport Sciences - Legacy; School of Health - Occupational Therapy; School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99448942402621
Output Type: Conference paper

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