Accessibility of radiology equipment for patients with mobility disabilities.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose was to evaluate accessibility of typical radiology platforms by participants with mobility disabilities.


BACKGROUND
These patients have difficulty using radiology equipment and have an increased risk of falling.


METHODS
This field study evaluated three common types of radiology platforms - X ray, computed tomography (CT) scan, and fluoroscopy - by 20 patients/participants with mobility impairments who used walking aids. The participants were required to get onto the equipment, simulate a typical radiological procedure, and get off. Each participant then watched a video of his or her own session and answered questions. Four researchers independently reviewed the videotapes and identified accessibility and safety barriers.


RESULTS
Overall, the CT scan platform was the easiest to use and the fluoroscopy platform the most difficult, primarily because of platform height differences. Sitting up on the Xray table was rated as difficult by most participants, primarily because of a lack of hand-holds and the surface pad not being fixed in place. Maintaining a position on the fluoroscopy platform while it rotated from horizontal to vertical was difficult and frightening for most participants.


CONCLUSIONS
Some radiology platforms are difficult to use and are perceived to be less safe for patients with mobility disabilities. The interaction of patient disability and equipment design can impose substantial physical demands on medical personnel. Recommendations for improved design are provided to enhance radiology platform accessibility and safety.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings may be applicable to the design of a wide range of medical patient platforms.
Story
Molly Follette
MF
University of California, Berkeley, Richmond, CA 94804, USA.
Luce
Adam C
AC
Leung
Alexander
A
Omiatek
Elizabeth M
EM
Lemke
Melissa R
MR
Rempel
David M
DM
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001107:Architectural Accessibility / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D051346:Mobility Limitation; D011859:Radiography / Q000295:instrumentation*