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Introducing robotic upper limb training into routine clinical practice for stroke survivors: Perceptions of occupational therapists and physiotherapists.

Authors :
Flynn N
Kuys S
Froude E
Cooke D
Source :
Australian occupational therapy journal [Aust Occup Ther J] 2019 Aug; Vol. 66 (4), pp. 530-538. Date of Electronic Publication: 2019 Jul 10.
Publication Year :
2019

Abstract

Introduction: Robot-assisted therapy for the upper limb (RT-UL) is an emerging form of intervention for stroke survivors with upper limb deficits. However, there is limited knowledge regarding therapists' perceptions of RT-UL and the factors influencing the implementation of RT-UL into the clinical setting. This is important when considering that therapists in Australia are primarily responsible for the prescription of RT-UL in daily practice. This study aimed to explore occupational therapists' and physiotherapists' perceptions of RT-UL and the perceived barriers and enablers influencing implementation.<br />Methods: Two discipline-specific focus groups were conducted involving occupational therapists (n = 6) and physiotherapists (n = 6). Participants were members of the same multidisciplinary team working in an Australian public health rehabilitation facility where RT-UL (i.e. InMotion2) was being introduced for the first time. Focus groups explored therapist perceptions of the new RT-UL as well as perceived barriers and enablers to implementation. Focus groups were recorded, transcribed and deductively analysed using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF).<br />Results: Out of the 14 domains of the TDF, 7 were raised by participants during the focus groups: environmental context and resources, beliefs about consequences, optimism, knowledge, skills, social influences, and social and professional role and identity. Therapists' expressed their optimism towards the introduction of RT-UL but believed successful implementation would be primarily dependent on the availability of clinical leadership, training and a suitable client mix.<br />Conclusion: Therapists perceived that RT-UL would provide opportunity for increased upper limb practice particularly for patients with severe upper limb impairment. To facilitate implementation, support of RT-UL should come from both management and clinical leaders and training include RT-UL efficacy, device functionality and patient suitability. The availability of a single RT-UL device in a workplace may create unique interdisciplinary and logistical challenges.<br /> (© 2019 Occupational Therapy Australia.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1440-1630
Volume :
66
Issue :
4
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Australian occupational therapy journal
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
31292975
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.12594