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

PLoS One. Oct 13, 2021; 16 (10): e0258509. doi: 10.1371 / journal.pone.0258509. Electronic collection 2021.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The variable, and generally inadequate, provision of vocational training following the provision of a manual wheelchair (MWC) has a negative impact on user mobility and participation. The traditional in-person delivery of training by rehabilitation therapists has declined due to cost, travel time and, more recently, social distancing restrictions due to COVID-19. Effective alternative training approaches include e-health home training applications and interactive peer-led training using experienced and knowledgeable MWC users. Innovative TEAM Wheels program integrates app-based self-study and peer-led training via teleconference using a tablet platform.

OBJECTIVE: This protocol describes the implementation and evaluation of the TEAM Wheels training program in a randomized controlled trial using a waiting list control group.

BACKGROUND: The study will be implemented in a community setting in three Canadian cities.

PARTICIPANTS: Persons ≥ 18 years of age within one year of transitioning to MWC use.

INTERVENTION: Using a tablet computer, participants participate in three peer-led teleconference training sessions and 75-150 minutes of weekly practice using a video training app over 4 weeks. Peer trainers individualize participants’ training plans and monitor their tablet training activity online. Participants in the control group also receive the intervention after a one-month waiting list period and data collection.

MEASURES: Results assessing participation; competence and performance capacity; self-efficacy; mobility; and quality of life will be measured at baseline and after treatment, and at 6 months follow-up for the treatment group.

IMPACT STATEMENT: We expect TEAM wheels to be successfully completed at all sites and participants will demonstrate a statistically significant improvement in outcome measures compared to the control group.

PMID:34644350 | DO I:10.1371 / journal.pone.0258509