RecruitingObservational

A study of Sensore: continuous pressure monitoring for wheelchair users

This study is exploring a new system called Sensore, which helps wheelchair users understand when pressure is building up, so they know when to change position. This can help prevent painful sores called pressure ulcers. Researchers want to know if Sensore is easy to use, safe, and helpful in everyday situations for adult wheelchair users, their carers, and healthcare professionals. The study doesn't test if Sensore cures or prevents pressure ulcers, but rather focuses on how practical and acceptable it is for people to use. Participants will attend some sessions at an NHS centre, learn about Sensore, and share their experiences through questionnaires and discussions. Some wheelchair users might also use the system at home. Taking part could help improve Sensore for others, and you can stop at any time.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Graphene Trace Ltd

Enrolment target

Start

01 Apr 2026

Estimated completion

30 Sep 2026

Usability and acceptability of a continuous pressure monitoring system for pressure ulcer risk management in adult wheelchair users and their carers and healthcare professionals.

What is this study about?

This study is about understanding how a new system called Sensore works for people who use wheelchairs. When someone sits for a long time, especially in a wheelchair, pressure can build up on certain areas of their body. This pressure can cause painful skin sores called pressure ulcers. The Sensore system is designed to help people know when this pressure is increasing, giving them a signal that it might be a good time to shift position or adjust themselves.

The main goal of this study is to see if Sensore is easy to use and if people find it helpful in their daily lives. Researchers want to know if wheelchair users, their family members or carers, and healthcare professionals can understand how to use the system properly and if it fits into their routine. This isn't a study to see if Sensore prevents pressure ulcers directly, but rather to gather feedback on its design and how practical it is for real-world use.

Your feedback from this study is really important because it will help make the Sensore system better for future users. By understanding what works well and what could be improved, the creators can develop a more effective and user-friendly tool to help wheelchair users manage their pressure and potentially reduce their risk of developing pressure ulcers. It's a chance to contribute to improving technology that could benefit many people.

Key takeaways

Exploring usability of a pressure monitoring system (Sensore) for wheelchair users.
Aims to understand if Sensore is easy to use in daily life, not a treatment trial.
Involves attending sessions in Cardiff and possibly using Sensore at home.
Your feedback helps improve the system for future users.
Risks are low; you can withdraw from the study at any time.
Open to adult wheelchair users, carers, and healthcare professionals.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over. This includes people who use a wheelchair, those who care for someone in a wheelchair, or healthcare staff who help with pressure care.

You need to be able to understand what the study involves and agree to take part. You also need to be able to use a smartphone or tablet, even if it's just basic use. The study materials will be in English or Welsh, so you need to understand one of those languages.

There are a few reasons someone might not be able to join. For example, if you already have an open pressure ulcer where the Sensore system would be placed, or if you helped design Sensore. Also, if your wheelchair seating is very specialised and wouldn't work with the Sensore mat, you wouldn't be able to take part. The researchers also want to make sure the system won't interfere with any other medical devices you might have. If you've been involved in patient groups linked to this study, you also wouldn't be eligible.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Can you understand and give permission to take part?
Do you use a wheelchair, care for someone who does, or work in pressure care?
Can you use a smartphone or tablet?
Do you understand English or Welsh well enough for instructions and questionnaires?
Do you not have an open pressure ulcer where the sensor would be placed?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll visit a specialist NHS centre in Cardiff a few times. During these visits, the research team will show you how to use the Sensore system. They'll ask you to use it while they watch to see how you get on. You'll also fill out some short questionnaires about your experience. You might also be asked to chat with the researchers in an interview or join a small group discussion.

If you're a wheelchair user, you may also be asked to use the Sensore system at home for a while as part of your normal daily routine. The study doesn't involve any medical treatments or changes to the care you already receive. It simply focuses on how you interact with and perceive the Sensore system. The study will start in April 2026, and each person taking part will be involved for up to a few months.

Potential risks and benefits

There might not be any direct benefit to you from taking part in this study, but the feedback you give will be very valuable. It will help the researchers make the Sensore system better for other people in the future. The risks of taking part are expected to be very low. You might find it a little inconvenient, feel tired, or experience slight discomfort from sitting during the sessions. Remember, you are free to stop taking part in the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Rehabilitation Engineering Unit, Cardiff & Vale University Health Board
City only
Pontypridd, Wales

Common questions

What is a pressure ulcer?

Pressure ulcers are skin sores that can form when someone sits or lies in the same position for too long, causing pressure on certain areas of the body. They are also known as bedsores or pressure sores.

What is the Sensore system?

Sensore is a monitoring system designed to detect when pressure is building up on a person's body, especially for wheelchair users. It helps them know when to change position to avoid pressure ulcers.

Do I have to live near Cardiff to take part?

Yes, the study is run from an NHS centre in Cardiff, and participants will need to attend sessions there.

Will I get any payment or compensation for taking part?

The information provided does not mention any payment or compensation for participants. This focuses on the research aspect only.

What if I change my mind after joining?

You are free to stop taking part in the study at any time, for any reason, without needing to explain why.

How to find out more

Stephanie Wentworth

stephanie.wentworth@wales.nhs.uk +44 2921833931 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.