Wheelchair outcome measurement instruments for children: a scoping review

This scoping review aimed to explore and map wheelchair outcome measurement instruments for children in the literature. A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. The review focused on children (≤18 years) manual or motorised wheelchair users, and included primary sources of literature on wheelchair outcome measurement instruments. A search was conducted in nine electronic databases, including grey literature. Data on general characteristics, psychometric properties (validity, reliability, responsiveness) were extracted and analysed descriptively. A total of 27 studies and 33 instruments were included, mostly focused on manual wheelchair users (n=23). Performance-based outcomes instruments were the most common (n=15). Construct validity (n=19) and test-retest (n=19) were the most assessed psychometric property. Responsiveness (n=3) and intra-rater (n=3) were the least reported. The most frequently conducted statistical analyses were: minimal detectable difference (MDD) (n=12), standard error of measurement (SEM) (n = 12), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) (n=16) and Pearson correlation (n=9). The most common construct was propulsion perfomance in a manual wheelchair (n=6). Wheelchair outcome measurement instruments for children mainly assess manual wheelchairs, emphasising propulsion perfomance as the primary outcome. Responsiveness and intra-rater are underreported, highlighting a gap for future research. Standardised methodologies and detailed reporting, including sample size specifications, are essential for advancing research and clinical practice. This scoping review informs healthcare professionals about wheelchair outcome measures, psychometric properties, statistical tests, and outcomes.The results can guide future research, clinical practice, and the development of wheelchair outcome measurement instruments by addressing existing gaps.Furthermore, it supports rehabilitation professionals in selecting outcome measures appropriate to the target population and cultural context. This scoping review informs healthcare professionals about wheelchair outcome measures, psychometric properties, statistical tests, and outcomes. The results can guide future research, clinical practice, and the development of wheelchair outcome measurement instruments by addressing existing gaps. Furthermore, it supports rehabilitation professionals in selecting outcome measures appropriate to the target population and cultural context.