The profound benefits of early patient mobility with platform walkers in acute care settings are well-documented. Over a decade of research confirms the positive patient outcomes associated with these programs. The groundbreaking research by Marra and Ely of Vanderbilt University, particularly the ABCDEFG method, has been instrumental in reducing the risk of Delirium in ICU patients1. This protocol, with its essential component ‘E’ for Early Mobility intervention, has led to significant advancements in patient care and mortality rates.
Today, hospitals worldwide are integrating early mobility into their standard patient care routines. However, while the outcomes are promising, these programs come with their set of challenges and risks. It’s crucial to ensure careful planning and integration with a facility’s Safe Patient Handling & Mobility (SPHM) program to mitigate risks such as patient handling injuries and increased falls.
A recent survey of ICU and Hospital nursing leaders revealed barriers to implementing early mobility protocols. These include lack of caregiver resources, increased risk of patient falls, and potential patient handling injuries. Despite these concerns, ICU/Inpatient Safety Walkers were chosen as the most preferred equipment for mobility activities, with 66% favoring this option.
Unleashing the Potential of Safety Platform Walkers
Safety platform walkers, such as those offered by SPH Medical Inc., are emerging as the preferred solution for their accessibility, safety, functionality, and efficiency. Let’s explore some of the standout features of their four walker models:
- Rise & Go Platform Walker: The Rise & Go Platform Walker offers a unique
blend of features, including a 330lb weight capacity, a safety sling with a hygiene strap, and a power stand assist. This walker is ideal for deconditioned ICU level early mobility. Its water-resistant design allows bathing therapy sessions with limited water spray, making it suitable for OT’s to work with patients on ADL’s. The Rise and Go is also known as the Rise and Go Double because it offers powered raising and lowering of the table/arm rests and powered opening/closing of the base. Several optional accessories are available to make the Rise and Go Platform Walker a truly valuable tool for early mobility. The available accessories include an Oxygen Tank Holder, IV Pole, Sit to Stand Transfer Platform, side supports for the arm rests and even a gait training harness in multiple sizes. The Multi Belt gain training harness allows therapy and nursing staff to mobilize those patients that may be a fall risk to stand safely using the power rise feature and take steps securely. - XL Platform Walker: The XL Platform Walker is designed for ambulatory
bariatric patients with a 529 lb weight capacity, extra-wide frame adjustments, and an optional O2 tank holder and IV Pole. The XL Plaform Walker is Ideal for patients who are not a high fall risk. This walker assists with sit-to-stand transitions using the optional foot plate and enhances the effectiveness of therapy for patients with requiring O2 and an IV to move along with them. - Standard Platform Walker: The Standard Platform Walker includes the same
vertical powered raising and lowering table / arm rest platform as the Rise and Go and the XL Walker in an economical package. It offers a 330 lb weight capacity. The fixed base makes the usage simple and easy to use for caregiving staff. - RoWalker: With a 400lb weight capacity, fixed seats that rotate and flip, and an
accessory basket for O2 tanks and IV poles, RoWalker is ideal for patients who can independently stand. It is also a perfect choice when sling management is a barrier, providing a simple, intuitive, and high weight capacity solution conducive to therapy activities.
SPH Medical Inc.’s platform walkers demonstrate how innovation can drive patient care forward, offering customized solutions to meet diverse patient needs. As we continue to strive for improved patient outcomes, let these walkers serve as a testament to the power of early patient mobility and the transformative role it plays in healthcare.
