As a clinician, I learned so much from my clients and their trials of a variety of equipment options. Trialing different options allow consumers to compare all features that can impact efficient and effective equipment use. This is essential to the client-centered approach and requires optimal time management skills with the length of stays becoming increasingly shorter, although the goals and outcomes of our clients remain the same. Every individual is unique and has their own idea of what is most intuitive to use.
When first being introduced to a new power wheelchair, it is important to assess one’s ability to access and utilize the joystick. If it is decided that the proportional joystick standard to the chair is appropriate, then you must examine the functionality of the layout and options of that interface. Always staying client centered allows flexibility to meet the needs of each unique consumer. In this case, the Q-Logic series of joysticks now offers the opportunity to provide a customized approach to our clients’ preferences.
With the Q-Logic 3e joystick, there are some key differences when interacting with this joystick interface while still maintaining the functionality of up to five power seating actuators. Most are familiar with the Q-Logic 3 EX joystick, with a toggle on/off lever and dial operation for speed. The new Q-Logic 3e is fully button based. In my clinical experience, I can distinctly remember some of my clients’ power wheelchair experiences that were directly impacted by being able to manage the additional buttons/switches on the joystick interface. In the case of those with limited hand function, they may utilize a universal cuff or a static wrist support and potentially a stylus or pencil that helps them to interact with and control buttons or switches on their joystick. Depending on the strength, coordination and force an individual has, this can greatly impact the efficiency and effectiveness in which they can manipulate these features.
This also leads to a discussion on what joystick is most intuitive to a client. Those with a history of using technology are usually able to understand and recall steps of a joystick operation and features very easily. As we work with a variety of clients, we have to remember this technology could be very new or learning could be impacted by other cognitive changes related to diagnoses. The Q-Logic 3e joystick offers a strictly icon-based color LCD screen that allows a different presentation of the information. Another difference with the Q-Logic 3e joystick is that instead of having a programmable I/II button with the option of an additional iAccess module, you now have a home row of programmable soft keys that function as a built-in iAccess. This allows multiple pages to be programmed for things such as your power seating functions.
Recognizing that our clients sometimes have difficulty with the transition from indoor to outdoor lighting and screen display visualization, new consideration was given to providing a quick option for improved visibility.
All these features are designed with the client in mind. If a client needs Bluetooth® access for environmental controls or is utilizing an alternative drive control, the Q-Logic 3 EX will best meet those needs. What may be intuitive to one client may not be to another. Our commitment is to meet the needs of our clients with every opportunity we can.
Check out Quantum’s PowerPoint presentation with a clinical comparison of Q-Logic 3e and Q-Logic 3 EX.
About Alex Chesney: Alex is an occupational therapist and clinical sales manager for Quantum Outside Sales. She lives in Texas and enjoys fitness, working out, and taking her two rescue dogs, Brinkley and Riley, on walks!
