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used correctly. Hodkinson, Smith and Mallet (2000:17) support this statement that if
correct limb fitting instructions are given and the prosthesis correctly fitted, it will enable
a person to walk and work in such a way that the disability should hardly be noticed.
5.5.3 ITEM.14 REHA.BILITATION TEAM Il\VOLVED IN EDUCATION
OF AMPUTEES ABOUT THE PROSTHESIS
This item was included because there are different rehabilitation team members involved
in teaching ofcare and use ofthe prosthesis. Information about the prosthesis is mainly
done by the prosthetist though there are some grey zones attended to by other team
members. The inclusion of this item was also to identify the actual members involved in
teaching the amputees about the prosthesis and its care.
TABLES.12 RElIABILITATIONTEA.'\I MEl\ffiERS INVOLVED IN EDUCATION OF THE
_. .
. AMPUTEES ABOUT THE PROSTIIESIS
.- - . ..
Rehabilitation Team Members Yes Percentage No Percentage
Prosthetist 10 40% 15 60%
Physiotherapist 15 60% 10 40%
Occupational Therapist 4 16% 21 84%
Rehabilitation Nurse I 4% 24 96%
Medical Practitioner 2 8% 23 92%
Ordinary Professional Nurse 2 8% 23 92%
Table 5.12 indicates that (24) 96% amputees were not seen by the rehabilitation nurse,
and only (1) 4% was educated, (23) 92% were not educated by the medical practitioners
with only (2) 8% educated, (21) 84% were not educated by the occupational therapist
with only (4) 16% educated, (15) 30% were not educated by the prosthetist, (10) 40%
were educatedby the prosthetist and (15) 60%were not educated.
This clearly indicates that amputees are educated about the prosthesis, its use and care by
other members ofthe rehabilitation team who are not specialists in this field, except 40%
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