Authors (including presenting author) :
Lau KF(1), Lau WLC(1), Yip KH(1), Lau PP(2), Ng PK(2)
Affiliation :
(1)Occupational Therapy Department, (2)Respiratory Medical Department, Kowloon Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Cervical spinal cord injury patients
Keyword 3: :
Adapted call bell device
Keyword 4: :
Communication
Introduction :
Patients with cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) frequently experience significant impairments in hand function and functional independence. These limitations often make it challenging for them to operate conventional call bells in hospital wards, which hinders effective communication with healthcare professionals.
Objectives :
To enhance accessibility of call bell devices for cervical SCI patients, thereby promoting their communication and safety in ward environment.
Methodology :
“Case report” design was utilized. Subjects were (1) cervical SCI patients in extended care wards in Kowloon Hospital (2) mentally alert and capable of expressing basic needs or complaints, (3) capable of performing at least active gravity-eliminated shoulder and elbow movements (4) unable to manipulate the call bell. The adapted call bell device was created by 3D printing technology, printed with Polylactic Acid (PLA) and prescribed to eligible subjects. Education on the correct operation of the device was provided to patient and caregiver. Guidelines with photographic illustrations were provided to ward staff to ensure proper usage. Outcome measurements were users’ experiences and satisfactions assessed by a self-designed scaling questionnaire.
Result & Outcome :
From September 2024 to July 2025, six adapted call bell devices were prescribed to eligible cervical SCI patients. The mean overall satisfaction score, measured on a scale from 1 to 10 (with higher scores indicating greater satisfaction), was 9.17 (SD = 0.75). 83% of subjects rated "totally agree,” for enhancing communication with ward staff. 50% of subjects rated "totally agree," for ease of operation. 33% of subjects rated "totally agree," for accuracy of operation. Feedback from cervical SCI patients indicate that the adapted 3D-printed call bell devices significantly improve their accessibility and enhance their daily communication with healthcare providers in wards.
