Uso e desuso de tecnologia assistiva por pessoas com tetraplegia: uma análise pós-alta em um centro de reabilitação no nordeste do Brasil

Abstract

Introduction: Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is often an acute and incapacitating event, resulting in significant restrictions in daily activities and social participation. Assistive Technology (AT) plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, yet abandonment of these devices is common despite their potential benefits. There is a gap in the literature concerning specific experiences of individuals with tetraplegia regarding AT use. Objective: This study aims to analyze adherence, abandonment, and discontinuation rates of AT devices among individuals with tetraplegia secondary to spinal cord injury at a Rehabilitation Hospital in Northeast Brazil. Additionally, it seeks to identify motivations behind the abandonment of these devices. Method: Participants were selected based on hospital records, and tele-presential interviews were conducted to gather information on AT usage post-hospital discharge. Sociodemographic, clinical data, and device details were analyzed. Results: The study revealed an abandonment rate of 18.4% among participants. Younger individuals (16-30 years) showed a lower abandonment rate. Devices categorized under "Postural Support" were the last frequently abandoned, contrasting with "Computer Accessibility" which recorded the highest abandonment rate. Conclusion: The findings highlight a significant abandonment rate of assistive products, underscoring clinicians' and researchers' concerns in the field of Assistive Technology and emphasizing the need for expanded studies on this issue. There is an urgent call to deepen understanding of the reasons behind abandonment. Future research using probabilistic samples is recommended to identify factors associated with abandonment, aiming to enhance AT services in the rehabilitation of individuals with tetraplegia.