The Experience of Being Grounded: A Phenomenological Study of Living with a Wheelchair. 


Author: Barlew L, Secrest J, Guo Z, Fell N, Haban G.

Affiliation: Private practice, Chattanooga, TN. 
Conference/Journal: Rehabil Nurs.
Date published: 2013 May 23
Other:
  Special Notes:  doi: 10.1002/rnj.96.   ,  Word Count: 141  
    

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this existential-phenomenological study was to investigate the experience of being in a wheelchair. It was a prelude to a pilot study examining the effect of "seated" Tai Chi.

METHODS:

An interpretive research group was used as were direct quotations to support the analysis. The interview question was as follows: "please describe specific experiences you have had in your wheelchair that stand out for you." FINDINGS: The interrelated themes were (a) humiliation, (b) frustration, (c) loss, and (d) humility, arising from a ground of self as disabled and time.

CONCLUSION:

The accommodations from the ADA Act have greatly facilitated the independence for those who are disabled, yet many obstacles remain.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE:

People using wheelchairs experience the same health problems as the able-bodied and are thus found in all areas of nursing practice.

© 2013 Association of Rehabilitation Nurses.

PMID: 23703718