Description
About:
For some children who use a powered wheelchair, a pediatric powered wheelchair standing device (PWSD) may be considered.
Defined as a powered wheelchair that electronically transitions between sitting and standing and that can be driven in either sitting or standing. PWSDs uniquely offer children access to the vertical plane and the ability to stand whenever and wherever they want. This article explores the potential benefits of pediatric PWSD use, factors should be considered when deciding if a PWSD is appropriate for a specific child, an evidence-based overview for assessing PWSD outcomes and providing intervention/training techniques for children.
Learning Outcomes:
- Learners will list 4 potential benefits of children’s use of a powered wheelchair standing device.
- Learners will discuss 3 outcome measures that can be used to assess outcomes of children’s use of a powered wheelchair standing device.
- Learners will explain 5 facets of evidence-based interventions supporting children’s use of a powered wheelchair standing device.
Author:
Lisa K. Kenyon, PT, DPT, PhD, PCS Dr. Kenyon is a Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training at Grand Valley State University (Grand Rapids, Michigan). She heads the Grand Valley Power Mobility Project; an inter-Professional project providing power mobility training and use for children who are not typically considered to be candidates for power mobility use. Dr. Kenyon has published numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, and presents nationally/internationally, on topics related to power mobility and pediatric practice. She serves on the Editorial Committee for the Wheelchair Skills Program and the Pediatric Specialty Council of the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.