Impact of the TEAM Wheels eHealth manual wheelchair training program: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

Ed Giesbrecht,Krista Best,Maude Laberge,William C Miller,Julie Faieta,François Routhier,Jose María Blasco

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0258509

Ed Giesbrecht, Krista Best + Show 5 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0258509

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Abstract

BackgroundVariable, and typically inadequate, delivery of skills training following manual wheelchair (MWC) provision has a detrimental impact on user mobility and participation. Traditional in-person delivery of training by rehabilitation therapists has diminished due to cost, travel time, and most recently social distancing restrictions due to COVID-19. Effective alternative training approaches include eHealth home training applications and interactive peer-led training using experienced and proficient MWC users. An innovative TEAM Wheels program integrates app-based self-training and teleconference peer-led training using a computer tablet platform.ObjectiveThis protocol outlines implementation and evaluation of the TEAM Wheels training program in a randomized control trial using a wait-list control group.SettingThe study will be implemented in a community setting in three Canadian cities.ParticipantsIndividuals ≥ 18 years of age within one year of transitioning to use of a MWC.InterventionUsing a computer tablet, participants engage in three peer-led teleconference training sessions and 75–150 minutes of weekly practice using a video-based training application over 4 weeks. Peer trainers individualize the participants’ training plans and monitor their tablet-based training activity online. Control group participants also receive the intervention following a 1-month wait-list period and data collection.MeasurementsOutcomes assessing participation; skill capacity and performance; self-efficacy; mobility; and quality of life will be measured at baseline and post-treatment, and at 6-month follow-up for the treatment group.Impact statementWe anticipate that TEAM Wheels will be successfully carried out at all sites and participants will demonstrate statistically significant improvement in the outcome measures compared with the control group.

Highlights

IntroductionDespite increasing prevalence of manual wheelchair (MWC) provision, users often experience restricted social participation and mobility because they are not provided with the skills to independently, safely, and effectively use their MWC [2]
Use of a manual wheelchair (MWC) to address mobility impairment is both common and growing
Typically inadequate, delivery of skills training following manual wheelchair (MWC) provision has a detrimental impact on user mobility and participation

Summary

Introduction

Despite increasing prevalence of MWC provision, users often experience restricted social participation and mobility because they are not provided with the skills to independently, safely, and effectively use their MWC [2]. Low self-efficacy, or a lack of belief in one’s ability to use a wheelchair, can further compromise participation [3]. In Canada, over 95% of MWC users required caregiver assistance with at least one major life activity including 37% for basic mobility [4]. Restricted mobility is associated with reduced participation and social connectedness [5], leading to isolation, stress and low self-esteem impacting quality of life [6]. Typically inadequate, delivery of skills training following manual wheelchair (MWC) provision has a detrimental impact on user mobility and participation. An innovative TEAM Wheels program integrates app-based self-training and teleconference peer-led training using a computer tablet platform.

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