RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Our pilot study tested the feasibility and performance of an eye-controlled power wheelchair for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. METHODS: In this prospective pilot study, participants drove the wheelchair three times around an indoor course. We assessed the time to complete the course; starting and stopping on command; turning 90, 135, and 180 degrees; time to backup; and obstacle negotiation. Following their use of the wheelchair, subjects were given a questionnaire to assess user experience. RESULTS: Twelve patients participated, and all were able to complete three trials without difficulty. Eight participants completed all of the individual tasks (eg, turning, stopping, etc.) without any errors. Overall performance ratings were high across all participants (4.6/5-excellent). CONCLUSIONS: Our eye-controlled power wheelchair prototype is feasible and has a very favorable user experience. This system has the potential to improve the mobility and independence of ALS patients, and other groups with motor impairments.
Asunto(s)
Esclerosis Amiotrófica Lateral/rehabilitación , Diseño de Equipo , Movimientos Oculares , Satisfacción del Paciente , Silla de Ruedas , Adulto , Anciano , Estudios de Factibilidad , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Proyectos Piloto , Estudios ProspectivosRESUMEN
AIM: To describe the development and evaluation of the Nursing Assistant Computerized Education Programme (NA-CEP), a computer-based palliative care curriculum for nursing assistants. METHODS: Sixty-five nursing assistants working in various clinical settings completed measures to evaluate usability, clarity, and relevance of the programme to their work. Participants' end-of-life knowledge and confidence also was assessed before and after NA-CEP use. RESULTS: Findings indicate that NA-CEP is easy to use, clearly presented, appropriate in reading level and content, and highly relevant to nursing assistant practice. NA-CEP also significantly increased nursing assistants' knowledge about palliative care. CONCLUSIONS: Evaluation findings indicate that NA-CEP is a useful tool for nurses and others who are responsible for training, orientation, and continuing education of nursing assistants.