Positioning patients in low awareness states in wheelchair and bed: experiences of nurses and health care assistants (HCAs)

The main role of rehabilitation for patients in low awareness states is to maximise potential for recovery, maintain present physical status and to prevent deterioration. Immobility and sustained posturing may lead to soft tissue shortening, which can hinder effective seating and provision of hygiene (Singer et al 2001).

Nurses and healthcare assistants (HCAs) play a pivotal role in the management of this patient group. Five to six mini focus group discussions will be conducted with nurses and HCAs with at least one year's experience. Discussions will be audio taped, transcribed and analysed using a ‘long table' approach (Kruger and Casey, 2000).