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.

Physical Therapists are supportive of Safe Patient Handling to promote functional improvement without risk of injury
Categoriesearly mobility,  Patient Handling,  Slings and Lifts

Championing Safe Patient Handling Practices and Early Patient Mobility

The American Physical Therapy Association: Championing Safe Patient Handling Practices and Early Patient Mobility

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), founded in 1921, has been instrumental in transforming lives and strengthening the physical therapy profession for over a century. With a mission rooted in improving the health and quality of life of individuals and communities, the APTA has consistently championed safe patient handling and early patient mobility practices across healthcare settings in the United States.

The Importance of Safe Patient Handling

Safe patient handling is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients. For providers, improper patient handling can lead to serious injuries, including musculoskeletal disorders. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare workers suffer from back injuries more than any other occupation.

Patients are also at risk. Improper handling can result in falls, discomfort, and incorrect positioning, leading to potential complications and longer recovery times.

The APTA’s Role in Promoting Safe Practices

Recognizing these challenges, the APTA has devoted significant effort towards promoting safe patient handling. Their strategies encompass education, advocacy, and the promotion of innovative tools and techniques.

The APTA provides robust educational resources to healthcare professionals, including guidelines, webinars, and workshops. These resources focus on proper patient handling techniques, injury prevention, and the use of assistive equipment.

In terms of advocacy, the APTA works tirelessly to promote policies and regulations that prioritize safe patient handling. They collaborate with healthcare organizations, policymakers, and other stakeholders to influence change at both the systemic and practice levels.

As part of their commitment to innovation, the APTA promotes the use of modern equipment and interventions that facilitate safe patient handling. These include lift aids, transfer devices, and other ergonomic solutions that reduce the physical strain on healthcare workers and enhance patient safety.

Reinforcing the Mission of the APTA

The APTA’s mission to improve patient safety through safe patient handling practices is more than just an organizational goal – it’s an essential component of a stronger, safer healthcare industry. By educating providers, advocating for better policies, and promoting innovative solutions, the APTA is leading the way towards safer patient handling and enhanced healthcare outcomes.

The work of the APTA serves as a reminder of the power of collective action in transforming healthcare practices. As we move forward, let us continue to support and champion these efforts, ensuring a safer and healthier future for all.

Early Mobility Walkers and Sit to Stand Lifts: Revolutionizing Patient Care

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the use of Early Mobility Walkers and Sit to Stand lifts in care facilities and hospitals. These devices are being championed by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and physical therapists across the nation as they work tirelessly to promote their patients’ functional goals.

The Power of Early Mobility Walkers

Early Mobility Walkers are designed to support patients who need assistance with weight-bearing. These devices are incredibly beneficial, providing stable support that enables patients to safely practice walking and balance training. They are particularly effective for individuals recovering from surgery or those with conditions that affect balance and mobility. By using these walkers, physical therapists can help patients regain confidence in their movements, promoting faster and safer recovery.

Sit to Stand Lifts: Promoting Independence

On the other hand, Sit to Stand lifts offer a lifeline for patients who may struggle with the simple yet critical task of standing up from a seated position. These lifts provide a safe and supportive mechanism that aids patients in achieving a standing position independently. This not only boosts the patient’s confidence but also helps maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility, which are crucial for overall mobility. The MiniLift 160 and MiniLift 200 offered by SPH Medical are two examples of powered sit to stand lifts used in healthcare facilities today.

Physical therapists leverage these devices to support their patients’ functional goals, enabling them to make strides towards independence in a safe and controlled manner. The use of Early Mobility Walkers and Sit to Stand lifts is a testament to the APTA’s commitment to advancing patient care through innovative solutions. SPH Medicals complete line of platform walkers like the Rise and Go, EVA Walker and, Bure XL Walker are good examples of early mobility walkers used in hospitals.

A Win-Win Scenario with Safe Patient Handling and Early Patient Mobility

The introduction of these interventions has proven to be a win-win scenario. They not only reduce hospital stays and associated costs but also significantly enhance the quality of life for patients. By promoting independence and mobility, these devices empower patients to reclaim their daily routines, marking a vital step in their journey towards full recovery.

In conclusion, the APTA and physical therapists continue to lead the way in revolutionizing patient care. Through the use of Early Mobility Walkers and Sit to Stand lifts, they are helping patients achieve their functional goals, underlining the power of innovation in enhancing healthcare outcomes.

SPH Medical Early Mobility Walkers
Categoriesearly mobility

Early Mobility Walkers Improving Outcomes

Early Patient Mobility (EPM) is a practice that focuses on the early mobilization of patients, especially post cardiac surgery, to improve their outcomes. This practice has gained traction in recent years as its advantages and benefits have become known. By using an appropriate device such as the Rise and Go Platform Walker, RoWalker, or the Early Mobility EVA Walker nurses can help reduce hospital stays by encouraging movement and mobility earlier than would be otherwise possible.

Early mobility walkers provide a great advantage to nurses and patients alike. They allow for the patient to easily stand from a sitting position, which is especially beneficial post cardiac surgery when strength and energy levels are low. This standing frame also provides stability as the patient takes steps, making it safer than trying to take these early steps without proper support. Additionally, by providing an appropriate device such as the Rise and Go Platform Walker, RoWalker or Early Mobility EVA Walker, nurses can help reduce hospital stays by encouraging movement and mobility earlier than would be otherwise possible.

Overall, early patient mobility has many advantages that benefit both patients and nurses. By using appropriate devices such as those mentioned previously nurses can ensure that their patients are able to move about safely and effectively, thus improving patient outcomes whilst reducing hospital stays. With the right device and proper guidance from nurses, early patient mobility can help patients return to their everyday activities sooner than expected.

Benefits of the Rise and Go Platform Walker

The SPH Medical Rise and Go platform walker is an affordable, safe, and comfortable solution for early patient mobility and ambulation. It comes with a patented electric power rise function that enables patients to move from sitting to standing with ease while minimizing the strain on caregivers. The walker has lockable castors, an IP65 waterproof rating, and a unique power rise harness that promotes a natural standing action, making it easier and safer to move from sitting to standing. The electric walking frame widening feature makes it easier for patients to stand up from a sitting position, even if they are in a wheelchair, bed or chair.Early Mobility Walker Rise and Go

The Rise and Go platform walker has an open, reinforced design for optimal stability during the standing maneuver, providing caregivers and patients with greater peace of mind. The sustainable design includes additional reinforcement bands that extend around the armrest cushion, reducing strain and warding off wear and tear. This feature increases lifespan and reduces costs for nursing homes, hospitals, private individuals, and other facilities.

The Rise and Go platform walker is suitable for early patient mobility, with height-adjustable shin supports that assist patients in achieving the right leverage and an anatomical cushion that enhances overall stability, providing support and relief to the arms, neck, and shoulders while shifting weight to the more powerful leg and chest muscles.

The hand controller on the walker is accessible to caregivers and patients, with ergonomic handles that can be adjusted in every direction for stroke patients who need to find the right positioning for their hands quickly. The flexible strapless adjustment makes it easy to set up the walker ahead of time, while folding armrests make it easy to store.

In summary, the SPH Medical Rise and Go platform walker is an excellent investment for anyone looking to provide patients with a safe, comfortable, and reliable solution for early mobility and ambulation. With features like electric power rise function, lockable castors, IP65 waterproof rating, and electrically driven frame widening, this walker provides optimal support and patient care. The sustainable, durable design ensures a long lifespan, making it a cost-effective solution for nursing homes, hospitals, private individuals, and other facilities.

Benefits of the Rowalker, “Early Mobility Walkers”

The SPH Medical RoWalker is a highly effective mobility device that enhances patient safety, particularly during walking. Featuring state-of-the-art designs, this mobile standing frame is perfect for low-functioning patients, post-cardiac and/or abdominal surgery patients, and nursing and rehab patients. The RoWalker is equipped with numerous features that make it ideal for patients in a variety of settings, including ICU’s, Med Surg, Ortho, Rehab, and more.SPH Medical RoWalker

One of the main advantages of the RoWalker is the built-in seat pads that offer exceptional comfort and fall prevention. The unique split seat pads allow patients with weak legs to rest comfortably and safely while preventing falls. With adjustable settings that cater to individual users, the RoWalker is suitable for anyone, including short to very tall patients.

Moreover, the RoWalker provides excellent support for both walking and standing training, and it is perfect for early mobilization. It also enables staff to provide extra support to patients who are taking their first steps with the RoWalker. The seat flaps offer an excellent safety feature for patients as they walk, providing the opportunity to rest and challenge themselves to take more steps.

In addition to its other features, the RoWalker is fitted with padded forearm supports that are adjustable, ensuring an optimal fit for each patient. The soft knee pads offer patients extra support during standing while also protecting them during walking. The width-adjustable base allows for easy access to chairs and wheelchairs, making it easy and convenient to maneuver. The RoWalker comes with rear castors that enable straight walking, and front wheel brakes that lock and unlock easily.

Finally, the RoWalker is equipped with numerous accessories to enhance its effectiveness. The hospital’s nursing, therapy, and respiratory staff can take advantage of the telescoping IV pole, customized basket to support cardiac monitors, multiple attachment options for oxygen tanks, and supports for drainage bags. With all these features and benefits, it is no wonder that the RoWalker is widely regarded as the gold standard of early patient mobility devices.

Benefits of the Early Mobility EVA Walker

The Early Mobility EVA Walkers are available in manual (pneumatic) and electric raising versions. Both models offer post-op patients maximum comfort and stability during their rehabilitation process. With an ergonomic design, these walkers provide unparalleled support to those undergoing early walking exercises, ensuring a safe and effective recovery. The walkers come with padded, molded arm pads featuring sculpted forearm cutouts to prevent arms from sliding off, convenient round-shaped, forward-facing handgrips for an improved ergonomic grip, and an adjustable width between armrests (12″-19″), making it perfect for institutions with multiple users.

The height adjustment lever mechanism located under the front armrest support frame allows easy customization of the walker, accommodating users up to 6’5″/198cm tall. EVA Walkers also include non-marring casters with step-on wheel locks, making them an ideal aid for indoor use. For added safety, Step-on locking brakes are present on two rear casters, while the Handbrake model includes a locking brake on the hand grips.

Electric EVA Walkers come with directional steering casters that enable the user to control the direction of the walker. Front brakes engaged when the patient stands or gets in or out of the walker, while rear casters lock in a straight line with the frame, keeping the walker from drifting sideways, making it especially helpful for patients who have difficulty walking in a straight line. The caster locks can be disengaged to enable a 360-degree swivel and tight turns, promoting independence and building patients’ confidence.Pendant Hand Control for the Electric EVA Platform Walker

The Electric EVA Platform Walker offers further convenience, with battery-operated height adjustment that adjusts between 36 1/2″ and 50″, and lifting capacity of 220 lbs (100 kg) for supporting patients during active standing. The walker comes equipped with an independent pendant hand control for easy operation and two 12v 2.9 rechargeable batteries that provide up to 6 minutes of continuous use per hour and a minimum of 50 up/down movements between charges.

SPH Medical Early Mobility Walkers provide safe, customizable, and effective mobility solutions for post-op patients during their rehabilitation process, maximizing their chances of a full recovery. Invest in the well-being of patients by working with SPH Medical to mobilize your patients.

Mobility Walkers by SPH Medical

Overall, the portfolio of Early Mobility Walkers from SPH Medical offer a wide arrange of options for use by nurses and Physical Therapists when attempting to implement early patient mobility practices. They offer optimal safety and support to patients, while providing improved outcomes and reduced hospital stays. With adjustable height settings, nurses can ensure that their patients are able to move about safely and effectively with minimal risk of injury or over-exertion. These unique Early Mobility Walkers also provide options for improved fall prevention with the RoWalker’s built-in seat flaps and the harness options available on the Rise and Go Platform Walkers.

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