The positioning information that should be provided to caregivers of adults with a physical disability on supply of custom-contoured seating, a Delphi study.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This research aims to identify information that is important to provide on supply of custom-contoured seating. The way this information would be best communicated is also of interest. A two-round e-Delphi study was utilised to explore consensus. A panel of stakeholders from Ireland including experts in positioning clients in custom-contoured seating and caregivers were recruited. The first round consisted of open-ended questions and was analysed using thematic analysis. The second round employed a rating technique and 7-point Likert scale. Consensus was set a priori at 70% agreement. The way information should be communicated and by whom was rated in order of preference. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifteen participants were recruited, nine clinicians and four caregivers. Fifty-two statements under six themes (transfers = 10, positioning = 22, pressure care = 4, general use = 4, post-supply follow-up = 8, functional activity = 4) were generated in round 1 by 13/15 participants. Round 2 was completed by 10/15. 49/52 statements reached consensus and were deemed important. The ways information should be communicated and by whom was identified. Caregivers want individualised information whereas clinicians preferred a more generic approach. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: There was a high degree of consensus on what information is required to support caregivers. The topics demonstrate the extensive information that should be provided. The preferred delivery method for primary caregivers was hands-on training with the opportunity to practice and take videos. Stakeholders differed in how they would prefer information delivered. Further research should evaluate the method of delivering training and its effectiveness.

Caregivers report a lack of guidance on postural management, which exacerbates their own health problems and results in underutilization of positioning equipment.Caregivers should be provided with information on transfers, positioning, pressure care, general chair use, post-supply follow-up, and the impact on functional activities when a new custom contoured seat is supplied.The preferred method of providing information to primary caregivers is to use hands-on training with the opportunity to practice and take videos during the supply appointment. Personalised information booklets or group training sessions may be most appropriate for additional caregivers.