Wheelchair-related accidents

Abstract

This study set out to determine the prevalence of wheelchair-related accidents, the circumstances in which they occur, the nature of injuries sustained, and to identify types of accident which are potentially avoidable. A postal questionnaire was sent to a random sample of 250 of the 4334 wheelchair users in the Leeds Eastern Health District. Those reporting accidents to themselves or their attendant were then interviewed by telephone. Of the 174 wheelchair users who completed the postal questionnaire, 48 reported accidents to themselves or others. Of wheelchair occupants 18% had had wheelchair-related accidents, falls being the most frequently reported with five users sustaining a fracture. Accidents involving wheelchair attendants were reported by 15.5% of users. It is concluded that wheelchair-related accidents are not uncommon and whilst most are minor, serious injuries can result. There is scope for prevention of many of these accidents for both wheelchair users and attendants.