Current clinical practice in 24-hour postural management and the impact on carers and service users with severe neurodisability

Background Clinical benefits of 24-hour postural management are widely recognised by occupational therapists but little is known about its impact on service users and carers or whether clinical practice is consistent across regions. Aims To investigate the use of 24-hour postural management by occupational therapists and to explore its impact on service users with neurodisability and their carers. Methods Quantitative and qualitative methods were employed in two phases; (1) Online survey with 96 occupational therapists across one UK region, with data analysed by descriptive statistics and correlations. (2) Focus groups with service users and/or carers (n=9), with data analysed by Thematic Analysis. Results Findings showed moderate positive correlation between frequency of use and (i) all key intervention skills and (ii) knowledge of night-time positioning (p<0.001). Moderate positive correlations were found between level of training and (i) assessment skills and (ii) knowledge of night-time positioning (p<0.001). The overarching theme from focus groups was 'reliance on individualised equipment', with overwhelming frustration from lack of support, loss of identity, equipment cost, insufficient focus on preventative strategies and accessibility issues. Conclusion A clinical practice guideline, including training, is crucial to direct practice. Providers must engage with service users and carers to address their frustrations.