title: Emergency signaling for a person with quadriplegia and extraordinary respiratory risk.
abstract: Individuals without extremity function and rectus abdominis control are at increased risk for respiratory obstruction, arrest and loss of ability to call for assistance. To assist distressed patients, a simple and reliable head controlled signaling mechanism was designed for electric wheelchair use. Components are available in most communities. By using the device patients increase the response rate to their calls for help, and improve their sense of confidence and safety. The simplicity of the idea may serve to encourage staff to be likewise creative in solving other problems.
mesh_terms: D000402:Airway Obstruction / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D003143:Communication Devices for People with Disabilities; D004630:Emergencies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011782:Quadriplegia / Q000150:complications*; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D014910:Wheelchairs