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• Fifty-one (51) of the amputees who were not taught, and stated that they did these
activities on their own by observing amputees who were taught The amputees
revealed that they were aware ofcomplications ifthey did not do these activities on
their own.
6.5.2.1.2 CARE OF THE PROSTHESIS
The activities or procedures that were involved in the care ofthe prosthesis were:
• Care and coning of the stump in preparation for fitting of the stump into the
prosthesis.
• Care and wearing ofthe stockings.
• Care and use ofthe prosthesis.
• Fitting ofthe prosthesis.
The majority ofthe amputees (15) 60% revealed that they were not well educated on all the
activities, except fitting ofthe prosthesis and use ofthe prosthesis by (14) 56%, and (24) 56%
about the use ofthe prosthesis. Fewer amputees (11) 44% were taught about care and coning
of the stump, (10) 40%, and care and wearing of the stocking (11) 44%. The number of
amputees who were not taught range between 44% and 68%.
Members of the rehabilitation team involved in education ofamputees about the prosthesis
were:
• Fifteen (15) 60% amputees were seen by the physiotherapist The physiotherapist is
responsible for exercise ofthe limbs after the amputees have fitted the prosthesis so
that the amputees use the prosthesis as ifit is their own limb.
• Another (10) 40% amputees was seen by the prosthetist who is responsible for issuing
different types ofthe prosthesis, and measures the limbs ofthe amputees in order to
choose the correct fit to the amputees. The prosthesis and assesses the amputees even
after fitting ofthe prosthesis and follow-up care is done even after discharge, to make
sure that the amputees are comfortable with their prosthesis.
• Four (4) 16% were seen by the occupational therapist who continued with restoration
offunction after fitting ofthe prosthesis, and functional assessment ifamputees could
be placed back in their old work or do new work.
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