24 hour postural management
Research type
Research Study
Full title
24 hour postural management: a scoping study to examine current clinical practice and the impact on carers and service users with severe neuro-motor disability.
IRAS ID
218104
Contact name
May Stinson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Ulster University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Twenty four hour postural management is a frequently used intervention by occupational therapists (OTs). It is used with a range of conditions such as cerebral palsy, stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis (MS) and spinal cord injury. This intervention aims to enhance independence in everyday life for children and adults by promoting function and it also aims to reduce complications such as pressure ulcers, contractures, chest infections etc. It usually includes assessing seating positions, lying positions and moving and handling techniques for individuals who have severe physical disability and are unable to reposition themselves. It often includes providing equipment such as wheelchairs, sleep systems, slings and hoists. The intervention is often very expensive and there is limited knowledge about the actual impact that this has on the individuals and their carers. In addition, this intervention is not always implemented consistently across Trusts and there can be variations depending on where an individual lives. The study aims to explore the impact of this intervention on individuals and their carers as well as scoping current practice across Northern Ireland.
The study will conduct an online survey of OTs across Northern Ireland to scope current clinical practice in relation to 24 hour postural management. It will also use focus groups to explore the impact that this intervention has on carers of individuals of any age and adult service users residing in the Western Trust.
The survey findings aim to identify any inconsistencies in practice as well as things that help or hinder the implementation of 24 hour postural, this information can help inform future undergraduate and postgraduate training for OTs and other health professionals. The findings from the focus group will be used to justify and shape future clinical practice regarding this commonly used intervention for the health and well-being of individuals and their carers.REC name
Wales REC 7
REC reference
17/WA/0199
Date of REC Opinion
23 Jun 2017
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion