RoWalker and Platform Walkers XL Walker and Rise and Go support Early Mobility
CategoriesPatient Handling

The Evolution of Early Patient Mobility and the Role of Platform Walkers

Early patient mobility in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and rehabilitation settings has been a focus of medical research for several years now. The consistent finding across studies is the profound impact of early movement post-treatment on accelerating recovery times. Despite this, implementing these crucial protocols can present significant challenges, especially when accommodating the diverse needs of patients of different sizes. This is where platform walkers have come into play, revolutionizing the field of early patient mobility.

A Look Back at the Genesis of the Cardiac Walker

The cardiac walker was borne out of necessity – the need to mobilize patients safely and efficiently after cardiac procedures. It was designed to provide support and stability, allowing patients to walk during the early stages of recovery. Over time, these walkers have evolved in design and functionality, becoming more user-friendly and adaptable to individual patient needs.

The Rise of Early Patient Mobility Programs

Early Patient Mobility programs in the U.S. have been gaining traction over the past few years. These programs are designed to get patients moving as soon as possible after surgery or during intensive care treatment. Studies have shown that early mobility can lead to shorter hospital stays, improved physical function, and better overall patient outcomes. However, the implementation of such programs is not without its challenges, particularly regarding patient safety and comfort.

The critical role of early patient mobility programs in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) is becoming increasingly recognized across the healthcare sector. These programs are designed to get patients moving as soon as possible, even during their intensive care treatment. The benefits of such initiatives are manifold and have far-reaching implications for both patients and healthcare providers.

Firstly, early mobility programs have been shown to significantly enhance patient outcomes. A study published in the Critical Care Nurse Journal found that early mobility can lead to improved physical function. This means that patients can regain their strength and independence faster, leading to an overall improvement in their health and wellbeing.

Secondly, these programs can also decrease lengths of stay in the ICU. Research in ScienceDirect’s Medical-Surgical Nursing Journal revealed that a controlled trial using a dedicated mobility team significantly reduced the length of ICU stays. This not only frees up valuable resources for other patients but also reduces the psychological impact of a prolonged hospital stay on patients.

Finally, early mobility programs can result in lower costs for healthcare providers. Despite the initial investment required to implement such programs, studies have shown that they are cost-effective in the long run. An article in the American Journal of Nursing highlighted the potential financial benefit of implementing an early mobility program at UCSF, demonstrating that the reduced length of stay and improved patient outcomes outweigh the additional staffing costs.

Early patient mobility programs in ICUs offer a host of benefits. They improve patient outcomes, reduce lengths of stay, and lower costs, making them an invaluable component of modern ICU care.

The Intersection of Cardiac Walkers and Early Patient Mobility

This is where cardiac or platform walkers come in. They offer a safe and effective solution to mobilize patients early in their recovery process. These devices provide support and balance, reducing the risk of falls and promoting patient confidence during mobility sessions. By facilitating patient movement, they play a crucial role in the success of Early Patient Mobility programs.

Early Patient Mobility and the SPH Medical RoWalkerThe Impact of Cardiac Walkers and Platform Walkers in Early Patient Mobility Programs

Cardiac walkers are also known as platform walkers. Under both names they have been instrumental in advancing Early Patient Mobility programs. They offer a safe and efficient means of mobilizing patients, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing recovery times. Evidence from multiple studies supports the effectiveness of these devices in promoting early mobility.

The Future of Early Patient Mobility with Platform Walkers

The rising trend for Early Patient Mobility programs shows no signs of slowing down. As healthcare professionals continue to recognize the benefits of early mobility, the demand for effective tools such as platform walkers is likely to increase.

Healthcare providers are encouraged to embrace these tools as integral parts of their Early Patient Mobility programs. By doing so, they can enhance patient care and improve outcomes, all while ensuring patient safety and comfort.

As we look to the future, one thing is clear – platform walkers are set to play a pivotal role in the landscape of early patient mobility, shaping the way we approach patient recovery in ICUs and rehabilitation settings.

In conclusion, SPH Medical stands at the forefront of innovation in early patient mobility solutions. As a leader in the field, we are committed to enhancing patient care and improving outcomes through our pioneering products. Our catalog includes the RoWalker, an advanced platform walker that is revolutionizing patient recovery in ICUs across the nation. Alongside the RoWalker, we offer the Bure Rise & Go, a reliable and robust walker designed for patients requiring extra support during rehabilitation. The Bure XL Walker caters to patients of all sizes, ensuring everyone can benefit from early mobility programs. Rounding up our suite of mobility solutions is the EVA Support Walker, a safe and secure solution for promoting patient independence during recovery.

Our products are more than just mobility aids; they are game-changers in early patient mobility programs. They offer unmatched safety features, ensuring patient comfort and confidence during mobility sessions. We back our product claims with hard statistics, demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing hospital stays and improving patient outcomes.

At SPH Medical, we believe in empowering patients and healthcare providers alike. Therefore, we not only provide groundbreaking products but also actively engage in educating medical professionals on the benefits of early mobility. Our call to action is clear – let’s embrace the future of early patient mobility together. By choosing SPH Medical, you’re choosing a partner dedicated to advancing patient care and revolutionizing the landscape of early patient mobility.

The XL Platform Walker by SPH Medical is the new hospital standard in early patient mobility
CategoriesPatient Handling

The Power of Early Patient Mobility: A Look at SPH Medical’s Platform Walkers

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 uniqueThe SPH Medical Rise & Go Platform Walker offers a unique walking harness as well as IV Pole and Oxygen Tank Holder 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 ambulatoryThe new XL Platform Walker by SPH Medical supports up to 529 lbs and has an IV Pole and Oxygen tank holder 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 The SPH Medical Standard Platform Walker offers a powered veritcal raising and lowering platform and a fixed base while supporting up to 330 lbs 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 anMobilize Patients Early with SPH Medical's RoWalker 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.

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