EFFICIENCY AND USER SATISFACTION EVALUATION OF A SEMI-AUTOMATED 2-IN-1 WALKING AND LIFTING ASSIST DEVICE FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) evaluate the task performance and efficiency of a semi-automated 2-in-1 walking and lifting assist device for patient transfer and walking assistance in physical therapy, and 2) study the satisfaction of general users and physical therapists with the semi-automated 2-in-1 device. The sample group for this study consisted of 10 participants, including general users and physical therapists, selected through simple random sampling. The research instruments included task performance record forms and a satisfaction questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean () and standard deviation (S.D.). The results revealed that: 1) In terms of task performance evaluation, the semi-automated device decreased the personnel workload by 50%, requiring only one caregiver compared to the conventional two-person method. Meanwhile, the participants were able to successfully accomplish the tasks within the simulated scenario as designed, recording an average simulated patient lifting time of 46.45 seconds and an average walking posture preparation time of 53.50 seconds. 2) Regarding the satisfaction with the semi-automated walking and lifting assist device for physical therapy, the overall satisfaction was at a high level ( = 4.48, S.D. = 0.17). When considering specific aspects, design received the highest satisfaction at the highest level ( = 4.57, S.D. = 0.31), followed by structure ( = 4.44, S.D. = 0.29) and usability ( = 4.44, S.D. = 0.26), both at a high level. In conclusion, the developed semi-automated 2-in-1 walking and lifting assist device is highly suitable in terms of structure, design, and usability. It can effectively serve as an alternative device to support physical therapy operations and enhance convenience in patient care.