Effects of Table Height and Handholds on Accessibility of Medical Examination Tables for Ambulatory Elder Patients with Mobility Disabilities

摘要

This study evaluated the effects of examination table height and handholds on independent and safe use by ambulatory elder patients with mobility disabilities. Background. These patients have reported difficulty using exam tables and are, in general, at higher risk of falling. They visit medical facilities more frequently and have increased exposure to the falling risks associated with examination table use. Methods. This laboratory study tested use of a height-adjustable medical examination table and several types of handholds by ambulatory elder patient-participants who used walking aids. The participants were asked to complete three series of tasks and then rate their effort, discomfort and feelings of being unsafe. First, they evaluated the table at three heights in combination with three types of handholds, or a table overhang, or neither handhold nor overhang (15 configurations) to sit down on and stand up from the table. Second, they evaluated eight configurations of pull-up support devices to sit up from supine on the table. Third, they were given one or two side railings or no railings to roll from supine onto one side. Results. For getting on and off the table, the medium height was best and side railings were the preferred handhold. The table overhang made no difference. For sitting up on the table, a strap with longitudinal rubbery grips required less effort and caused less discomfort than other aids attached to the table or no aid, but participants preferred side railings. For aid location, the ceiling was preferred to the foot of the table or the sides (railings). For rolling onto one side, railings on both sides were strongly preferred to one railing or none. Conclusion. Within the range tested, exam table height made little difference but handholds showed significant differences in effort, discomfort and feelings of being unsafe, depending on task. Handholds are most important for rolling onto one side, help some people to sit up, and have less impact on standing up.