Clinician perspectives on the implementation of inpatient cycling-based exergames for children with cerebral palsy: A qualitative study.

Abstract

Objective: To understand the perspectives of key stakeholder clinicians in implementing inpatient cycling-based exergames for children with cerebral palsy (CP) into pediatric rehabilitation.

Methods: Sixteen clinicians (nurses, physiotherapists, recreational therapists) that participated in a study exploring the feasibility of implementing cycling-based exergames for inpatient children with CP were interviewed. Clinicians' responses were coded using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Beliefs were generated from each response and relevant domains were identified.

Results: Ten domains from the TDF were identified as relevant. Key enablers to clinician participation in future implementation included revision of clinician roles and responsibilities, the belief that children with CP will benefit from exergames, and the belief in potential applicability to other pediatric populations. Barriers included clinician limited time and exergame responsibilities not aligning with perceived clinician roles.

Conclusions: This study identifies key barriers and enablers that future inpatient pediatric rehabilitation settings should consider when incorporating exergames into rehabilitation practice.