May 03, 2011, 01:06 pm
To aid you in your google search, try searching key words with Physiotherapy. When aged patients are admitted, they are generally assessed for mobility needs by the Physios. Those who need some form of support will start at the basic wheelie walker, however where more support if required to bear down, the ESF comes into play (Elbow Support Frame) as it provides some weight bearing support over the wheelie walker. Where a person is fairly independent but still require some form of assistance, a walk belt might be enough. Some patients' because of their excessive weight and high risk, may need to be transferred using mechanical hoist of sorts - full hoist or standing hoist for example.
Assessment of equipment required usually includes cognitive and medication assessments. Does the patient have dementia and given to wandering? Are there any medications that could compromise the patient's safety in mobilizing or transfers...example - Beta blockers, di-uretics causing increased frequency and urges for toileting needs and etc. Patient education and habits also come into play when deciding what equipment is best. Example - a patient habitually pushes his wheelie walker way too forward of himself causing him to lean forward in an awkward manner. Failure to correct the patient;s posture may necessitate a change of tactics...maybe go to an ESF even though the patient has good weight bearing and coordination attributes.
The environment is another factor in considering equipment suitability. Small or narrow toilets make for very difficult use of ESFs (turning) or even when transferring a patient on a shower chair.
Prior to transfers, always agree on route of movement and what to do in emergencies. Example - A patient has a history of loosing strength in their legs when mobilizing. Agree with anyone assisting in the transfer that No One is to weight Bear but to guide the patient in his/her fall in the safest manner...ie. on their bums. Or have someone walk behind with a wheel chair.
Hope I have helped address some points. Cheers
