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A Study on Assistive Technology for Pediatric Therapists  

Kim, Kyoung-A (Department of Rehabilitation Technology, Hanseo University)
Jeong, Dong-Hoon (Department of Rehabilitation Technology, Korea Nazarene University)
Publication Information
The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy / v.25, no.1, 2013 , pp. 1-9 More about this Journal
Abstract
Purpose: This study sought to identify the utilization and confidence in assistive technology (AT) for pediatric physical therapists (PPTs) and pediatric occupational therapists (POTs) for the purpose of improving the utilization of AT in clinics. Methods: The subjects of this study were 167 therapists (98 PPTs and 69 POTs) who work at general hospitals, welfare centers, facilities for the disabled, and special education schools in Seoul and Gyeonggi province. The frequency analysis and chi-squared test were used. Results: This study found that both PPTs and POTs recognize that AT benefits infants with disabilities; however, they show low confidence in using AT. Applications of AT are concentrated on wheelchairs for mobility and assistance with seating position, with orthotics/prosthetics for both purposes. POTs were found to use a wider variety of AT devices. While both PPTs and POTs frequently select/recommend devices, both groups are less involved with delivery methods, manufacture of devices, and education on AT use. Conclusion: These findings show the actual conditions of utilization and confidence in AT of PPTs and POTs deeply involved with AT, and emphasize that AT training is essential for pediatric treatment by comparing domestic and foreign studies.
Keywords
Assistive technology; Training; Pediatrics;
Citations & Related Records
Times Cited By KSCI : 5  (Citation Analysis)
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