When creating a plan for rehabilitation with a patient who uses assistive devices, what is a best practice?

• A. Only discuss expensive devices
• B. Explain options and benefits, assess ability to use, involve patient in decision
• C. Decide for patient based on clinician preference
• D. Only discuss the device that is funded

Answer: (B)

Centering care on the patient’s goals and choices is essential when planning rehabilitation with assistive devices. The best practice is to explain the options and their benefits, assess the patient’s ability to use each option, and involve the patient in the decision. This approach supports informed consent and autonomy, helps ensure the device fits the patient’s abilities, environment, and daily routines, and promotes better adherence and outcomes. By presenting multiple options, clinicians can compare functional impact, training needs, safety considerations, and maintenance. Involving the patient also respects their values and priorities, so the selected device is more likely to be used correctly and consistently.

Choosing for the patient based on clinician preference ignores the patient’s values and goals, which can lead to a poor fit and reduced acceptance or use. Focusing only on expensive devices or only on what is funded limits options, potentially sacrificing safety, independence, and satisfaction.