Effect of Simulation Evacuation Training Improvement Activity through Wheelchair Skill Training

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of simulation evacuation training improvement activity through wheelchair skill training. Methods The study included 40 patients with early stroke who were randomly allocated to a wheelchair skill training group (Experimental group, n=20) and a general exercise group (Control group, n=20). Both groups performed the exercise 3 times a week for 3 weeks. Outcomes were assessed using Wheelchair Skills Test Skills Performance (WSTSP), Wheelchair Skills Test Skills Safety (WSTSS) and Wheelchair Propulsion Velocity (WPV). Results After 3 weeks of training, both groups showed significantly improved WSTSP, WSTSS and WPV (p<.01 in both groups). However, the WSTSP, WSTSS and WPV in the experimental group were very significantly better than in the control group (p<.01). Conclusion These findings indicate that wheelchair skill training may be effective at improving wheelchair skill ability and wheelchair propulsion velocity in stroke patients who cannot walk independently. Therefore, short-term wheelchair skill training could be useful for patient safety in simulated evacuation situations. Key words: Locomotion ㆍ Patient safety ㆍ Stroke ㆍ Wheelchairs