Journal Article Details

Citation:
Cooper, R. A., Boninger, M. L., Cooper, R., Fitzgerald, S. G., & Kellerher, A. (2004). Preliminary assessment of a prototype advanced mobility device in the work environment of veterans with spinal cord injury. NeuroRehabilitation, 19 (2), 161-170.
Title:
Preliminary assessment of a prototype advanced mobility device in the work environment of veterans with spinal cord injury
Authors:
Cooper, R. A., Boninger, M. L., Cooper, R., Fitzgerald, S. G., & Kellerher, A.
Year:
2004
Journal/Publication: 
NeuroRehabilitation
Publisher:
IOS Press
Full text:
Peer-reviewed?
Yes
NIDILRR-funded? 
Yes
Research design:
Single subject design

Structured abstract:

Background:
Many environments are not accessible to individuals that use wheelchairs for ambulation.
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to collect data on the potential for the Independence 3000 IBOT Transporter to improve employment satisfaction of veterans who use wheelchairs to work.
Setting:
Various offices made up the setting.
Study sample:
Subjects were recruited from the Washington Office of the Paralyzed Veterans of America. Four male veterans with traumatic spinal cord injury were selected to participate in the study.
Intervention:
The intervention was the use of the IBOT in the work setting to hold eye-level discussions with colleagues, climb stairs, ascend steep ramps, and negotiate curbs.
Control or comparison condition:
There was no control or comparison condition.
Data collection & analysis:
Observations were made by trained clinicians and participants responded to a survey.
Findings:
Half of the users felt that the IBOT would help them at work and all users felt it should be made available to veterans who use wheelchairs.
Conclusions:
A larger study should be conducted to determine if the IBOT affects work performance and the ability to return to work.
Disabilities served:
Mobility impairment
Populations served:
Gender: Male
Veterans
Interventions:
Other
Outcomes:
Other