Introduction
Telerehabilitation has emerged as a pivotal component of healthcare, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, by providing remote access to rehabilitation services. This method not only enhances accessibility for patients in remote areas but also offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional in-person sessions. However, the shift to digital platforms brings with it concerns about patient safety, particularly regarding adverse events during telerehabilitation sessions.
Research Overview
The research article titled "Adverse events associated with the delivery of telerehabilitation: A scoping review protocol" aims to fill the existing research gap by systematically reviewing the literature on adverse events in telerehabilitation. This review, conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodological framework, seeks to identify and categorize adverse events, understand their frequency, and evaluate the quality of reporting in existing studies.
Key Findings and Implications
The anticipated outcomes of this scoping review include a comprehensive mapping of adverse events, such as falls during physiotherapy or aspiration pneumonia in speech-language pathology, which are associated with telerehabilitation. The review also aims to identify patient populations and telerehabilitation modalities that are more prone to these adverse events. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing risk-mitigation strategies and improving the overall safety and effectiveness of telerehabilitation.
Practical Applications for Practitioners
For practitioners, the findings of this review can be instrumental in enhancing their practice. By being aware of potential adverse events, practitioners can:
- Implement tailored safety protocols to mitigate risks during telerehabilitation sessions.
- Educate patients about potential risks and safety measures to ensure a safe therapeutic environment.
- Utilize the data to advocate for improved technology and infrastructure that supports safer telerehabilitation practices.
Encouragement for Further Research
While this scoping review provides a foundational understanding of adverse events in telerehabilitation, it also highlights the need for further research. Practitioners and researchers are encouraged to delve deeper into specific adverse events, explore innovative solutions to mitigate risks, and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in this field.
Conclusion
As telerehabilitation continues to evolve, understanding and addressing adverse events is paramount to ensuring patient safety and optimizing therapeutic outcomes. By leveraging data-driven insights from this scoping review, practitioners can enhance their practice and contribute to the advancement of safe and effective telerehabilitation services.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Adverse events associated with the delivery of telerehabilitation: A scoping review protocol.
