In this full day session join us for a deep dive into two of Permobil’s Blue Pathway courses: Your Manual into Manual Wheelchair Scripting and Scripting Power Assist Devices. The day will include a good mix of formal and practical learning sessions – and you will leave with key learnings you can apply to your practice when you prescribe your next MWC and Power Assist Device.

Your Manual into Manual Wheelchair Scripting:

Want to learn the difference between a custom configured and a custom-built frame? Does it even matter? Understanding how configuration impacts on ADL participation, functional mobility and posture are essential when prescribing manual wheelchairs for active users. In this workshop, you will explore a range of set ups and configurations and experience firsthand the differences these have on wheelchair propulsion. We will consider the biomechanics of the user alongside the design and configuration of a manual wheelchair, to ensure we appreciate and understand the importance of an individualised fit for end users.

Objectives:

Identify the difference between custom configured and custom-built frames
Understand the importance of propulsion technique with reference to shoulder integrity
Understand the importance of the rear wheel position and how we align this to the user

Scripting Power Assist Devices: Gain independence with some power assistance:

Who benefits from a power assist device (PAD) and what do we need to consider during an assessment? Are all PADs compatible with all types of manual wheelchairs? This workshop looks at the different PAD options, exploring the benefits and challenges of each with reference to relevant evidence based practice. We will work through what information is needed from an assessment, potential clinical reasoning strategies and how this relates to identifying the most appropriate device for trial.

Objectives:

Identify how front, main and rear wheel PAD are installed and detached from a manual wheelchair
List 3 reasons why you may choose one type of PAD over another (with reference to a case study that will be provided)
Identify the benefits of PADs with reference to relevant evidence-based practice

We can’t wait to see you at this session!

Meet the Presenter: Roseanna Tegel (Permobil)

Roseanna Tegel joined Permobil in May 2023 as a Clinical Services Specialist. She graduated from Western Sydney University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Health Science/Master of Occupational Therapy and received the Prize in Undergraduate Occupational Therapy for Overall Achievement and the Cerebral Palsy Alliance scholarship.

Roseanna began working at residential aged care facilities where her understanding of the need for suitable, person-centred equipment commenced. From there, she transitioned to work in community disability and quickly developed an interest for complex seating and mobility outcomes to benefit both the end user and wider network. She then stepped into a Team Leader role due to her passion for learning and best practice; supporting the Occupational Therapists with their own clinical needs and outcomes, and progressed to also provide external supervision to Occupational Therapists.

Roseanna is motivated to support clinicians with their confidence and clinical reasoning allowing them to provide the best outcome for each individual user. Outside of work, Roseanna enjoys time with her dog, playing the 'cello, horse riding and aerial sports.