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The SPH Medical RoWalker is the gold standard of early mobility walkers
CategoriesPatient Handling

SPH Medical RoWalker Redefining Early Mobility with a Walker for All Sizes

by sphmedicaladmin

SPH Medical is a beacon of innovation in the realm of healthcare safety and mobility. Our unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes is at the heart of our mission. We continually strive to redefine patient early mobility, particularly in critical care areas such as Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and hospital/rehab settings.

The Crucial Role of Early Mobility

The role of early patient mobility in ICUs and rehab settings is pivotal. Cutting-edge research consistently underscores the profound impact of initiating movement post-treatment on accelerating recovery times. However, this crucial aspect of patient care often presents an array of challenges, particularly when addressing the diverse needs of patients of all sizes.

The SPH Medical RoWalker: A Game-Changing Solution

In response to these challenges, we bring to you the SPH Medical RoWalker – an early mobility platform walker designed to transform patient mobility protocols while prioritizing the safety and comfort of patients of all sizes.

The Exceptional Features of the SPH Medical RoWalker

The RoWalker stands as a testament to exceptional design and functionality. Its adjustable height setting accommodates a wide range of patients, ensuring inclusivity in care. The ergonomic hand grip design guarantees a secure and comfortable grip, building patient confidence during mobility sessions.

The standout feature of the RoWalker is its integrated seat flaps. The safety seats are often the number one reason that nurses and therapists select the RoWalker over all other ambulation devices.  This innovative feature not only prevents falls but also allows for fewer nurses or therapy staff to work with a patient, eliminating the need to follow the patient with a wheelchair. Furthermore, these seat flaps enable the patient to rest when needed, fostering a sense of autonomy and dignity.  Having the opportunity to allow the patient to rest and regain energy results in more steps being taken during a therapy session and ultimately contributes to a reduced length of stay.

Moreover, the RoWalker’s impressive weight capacity of up to 400lbs makes it a versatile choice for patients of all sizes and body types. The padded arm rests can be adjusted in or out and the safety seats can rotate outward 180 degrees to allow for larger body types. For heavier patients up to 530lbs, we proudly offer the Bure XL Platform Walker.

The RoWalker also offers optional accessories such as an IV Pole, Oxygen Tank Holder, and a front basket. These accessories ensure that even the most complex ICU patient can carry all necessary equipment during ambulation, making the RoWalker a comprehensive solution for early patient mobility.The SPH Medical Universal IV Pole attaches to RoWalker and stretchers, wheelchairs and more.

Directional casters are standard on the RoWalker.  These locking casters allow the RoWalker to track in a straight line during walking exercise.  For tight turns the directional casters can be left unlocked.  The base of the RoWalker opens and closes with the simple press of a foot lever which may be useful to access a chair or bed with low frame.

The Unparalleled Benefits of the SPH Medical RoWalker

The RoWalker is not merely a mobility aid – it is a revolution in patient care. By enhancing patient mobility, reducing injury risk, and improving comfort levels, the RoWalker is setting new standards of care. Real-world case studies confirm these benefits, showcasing notable improvement in patient recovery times following the integration of RoWalker into care routines.

The RoWalker in Practice: Empowering Patients of All Sizes

Patients of all sizes often face unique mobility challenges, necessitating specialized care and equipment. The RoWalker, with its robust construction and accommodating design, is tailor-made to meet these requirements. Our data reveals a significant increase in early patient mobility among patients of all sizes following the introduction of RoWalker, underscoring its effectiveness.

The Transformative Impact of the RoWalker on Patient Early Mobility

The SPH Medical RoWalker is more than a device; it’s a paradigm shift in early patient mobility. Its innovative design, coupled with remarkable safety features, establishes it as the gold standard of early mobility platform walkers.

We invite healthcare professionals dedicated to improving patient outcomes to experience the transformative power of the RoWalker.

In conclusion, the RoWalker by SPH Medical isn’t merely a product – it’s a commitment. A commitment to enhanced patient mobility, unrivaled care, and accelerated recovery times. Embrace the future of patient care with the RoWalker today.

ICU Cardiac Walker for Early Mobility the SPH Medical RoWalker
Categoriesearly mobility

SPH Medical RoWalker: The Superior Cardiac Platform Walker for ICU Early Mobility Programs

by sphmedicaladmin

In the realm of healthcare safety and mobility, SPH Medical stands at the vanguard of innovation. Today, we spotlight a product that exemplifies our commitment to excellence the SPH Medical RoWalker, the unrivaled cardiac platform walker for ICU early mobility programs.

The Imperative of Early Patient Mobility in ICUs and Rehab Settings

The critical role of early patient mobility in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and rehabilitation settings is a well-documented fact in contemporary medical research. A growing body of evidence strongly emphasizes the substantial impact of early mobilization post-treatment in expediting recovery times.

A study published in Springer’s Intensive Care Medicine journal underscores the importance of initiating physical rehabilitation within a few days after ICU admission source. Similarly, research featured in ScienceDirect reveals that a controlled trial using a dedicated mobility team significantly enhanced the effectiveness of early mobilization in the ICU setting.

Furthermore, an article in the American Journal of Nursing demonstrates the efficacy of early mobility in an ICU setting, revealing improved patient outcomes following the implementation of an early mobility program source. Another study in the Physical Therapy Journal found that a nurse-driven mobility protocol provided significant benefits to ICU and intermediate care unit patients.

Moreover, research published in Sage Journals associates the implementation of an early rehabilitation program with a reduced length of stay in multiple ICUs source. A systematic review in PLOS ONE also suggests that early mobilization during ICU stay may lead to more considerable benefits, particularly in settings where there is currently no early intervention.

However, despite the overwhelming evidence supporting early patient mobility, implementing these critical protocols can present significant challenges. This is particularly true when accommodating the diverse needs of patients of different sizes. It is in this context that the RoWalker emerges as a game-changer, providing an innovative solution to address and overcome these challenges.

Introducing the SPH Medical RoWalker

The RoWalker is nothing short of a revolution in the field of early mobility. Designed with meticulous precision to overcome the hurdles of ICU early mobility programs, it places patient safety and comfort at the forefront, catering to patients of all sizes with unerring ease. It’s the definitive solution for early patient mobility.

Standout Features of the SPH Medical RoWalker

The RoWalker’s design marries functionality with cutting-edge innovation. It boasts an adjustable height setting to accommodate a wide range of patients. Integrated seat flaps not only prevent falls but also allow patients to rest when necessary, fostering a sense of autonomy and dignity in care.

What truly sets the RoWalker apart is its impressive weight capacity of up to 400lbs, making it an all-encompassing choice for patients of all sizes. Furthermore, it offers optional accessories such as an IV Pole, Oxygen Tank Holder, and a front basket, ensuring that even the most complex ICU patients have all necessary equipment during ambulation.Features of the SPH Medical RoWalker

  • Boasting a remarkable weight capacity of 400 lbs
  • Facilitate early patient mobility and expedite hospital discharge times
  • Encourage patients to surpass their mobility milestones
  • The RoWalker accommodates all essential equipment for complex patients; IV Pole, O2 tank holder, basket for cardiac monitor
  • Minimize the risk of falls with superior safety features including seat flaps
  • Padded Table / Arm Rests are width adjustable
  • Directional Locking castors allow the RoWalker to track in a straight line down hallways

Directional casters are standard on the SPH Medical RoWalker

The Unrivaled Benefits of the SPH Medical RoWalker

The RoWalker transcends the definition of a mobility aid; it’s a watershed moment in patient care. By enhancing patient mobility, reducing injury risk, and improving comfort levels, the RoWalker is redefining standards of care. Real-world case studies bear testament to these benefits, demonstrating a marked improvement in patient recovery times with the integration of the RoWalker into care routines.

The RoWalker at Work: Empowering Patients of All Sizes

Patients of all sizes often grapple with unique mobility challenges, necessitating specialized care and equipment. The RoWalker, with its robust construction and accommodating design, is tailor-made to meet these needs. Our data unequivocally shows a significant surge in early patient mobility among patients of all sizes following the introduction of the RoWalker, underlining its unmatched effectiveness.

Conclusion: The Game-Changing Impact of the SPH Medical RoWalker

The RoWalker represents a seismic shift in early patient mobility. Its innovative design, coupled with its extraordinary safety features, cements its position as the gold standard of early mobility platform walkers. We extend an invitation to healthcare professionals committed to enhancing patient outcomes to experience the transformative power of the RoWalker firsthand.

In conclusion, the RoWalker by SPH Medical is more than a product it’s a pledge. A pledge to enhanced patient mobility, unparalleled care, and expedited recovery times. Embrace the future of patient care with the RoWalker today.

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

by sphmedicaladmin

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 occupation2.

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 equipment3.

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

by sphmedicaladmin

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.

The SPH Medical RoWalker improves patient outcomes
CategoriesPatient Handling

Early Mobility and the RoWalker

by sphmedicaladmin

Medically speaking, early patient mobility means mobilizing or getting a patient out of bed within hours of their intensive care stay in a hospital. And there are several reasons why this is of utmost importance, notes an evidence based study from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. In that study, researchers revealed that early mobility reduces a patient’s chances of suffering from muscle weakness and delirium, which are both, unfortunately, quite common among bedridden patients.

But reducing the risk of muscle weakness and delirium are not the only benefits that come from getting patients up and out of bed as soon as possible. In a separate study published jointly by the National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, researchers found that hospital patients who spend less time confined to their hospital beds are less likely to encounter the following health problems:

  • Decubitus ulcers
  • Various blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis
  • Pneumonia
  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Weighs in on the Benefits of Early Patient Mobility

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, one of twelve agencies within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, found that early patient mobility in mechanically ventilated patients can lead to shorter hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) stays. The same was said to apply to lowering a patient’s chances of suffering from the following:

  • Sleeping disorders
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Mobility issues, such as weak bones, weak muscles, and stiff joints

Why More Hospitals Are Using Safe Patient Handling Programs to Ambulate Bedridden Patients

Although hospital medical teams can position and reposition patients as needed for medical treatments, doing so is hardly efficient. Further, multiple studies show it puts medical teams at risk of suffering overexertion-related musculoskeletal disorders. Available data shows these disorders, which can cause severe back, neck, shoulder, arm, and leg pain, contributed to more than 8,700 missed work days among hospital medical teams in 2016. To improve efficiency and keep patients and hospital medical teams safe, many hospitals have implemented safe patient-handling programs to help mobilize bedridden patients.

What Is a Safe Patient Handling Program?

Succinctly put, a safe patient handling program is a program that comprises extensive training and assistive devices that help medical teams safely and efficiently lift, move, support, reposition, and ambulate patients. One assistive device many hospitals use today to keep their medical teams and patients safe is the RoWalker from SPH Medical. For those who have never seen one, a RoWalker is a fully adjustable platform walker that aids medical teams in freeing patients from the beds that confine them and helping to get them up and standing, taking first steps, and then walking around the unit as they progress functionally. The device also has armrests and handlebars, which help with ergonomics and overall comfort. But it does not end there in terms of what it offers patients and medical teams.

What Hospitals Are Saying About the SPH Medical RoWalker

Several studies show hospitals are beyond happy with the SPH Medical RoWalker. The reason for that supreme elation partly stems from the fact that the SPH Medical RoWalker, designed based on recommendations from leading cardio-thoracic surgeons, physical therapists, and respiratory therapists, can support patients weighing up to 400 pounds. That means patient-handling tasks require fewer medical teams; as such, those team members are free to participate in other activities that are also critical to that patient’s overall care. Many hospitals also like how the RoWalker can carry many of the things that most hospital patients need as they move away from bedside and walk down the hallway, some of which include

  • An oxygen tank
  • Drainage bags
  • An IV pole
  • A small cardiac monitor

Indeed, the benefits of implementing a safe patient-handling program in a hospital are plenty. And that applies to hospital teams and patients alike. To learn more about RoWalker and other devices that go hand in hand with a safe patient-handling program, consider speaking with an SPH Medical associate today.

Mobilize patients early with the SPH Medical Rowalker
CategoriesPatient Handling

Early Patient Mobility and Why Movement Matters

by sphmedicaladmin

For those unfamiliar with Dale M. Needham, M.D., Ph.D., he served as the lead researcher in a study published by the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. In that study, he concluded that early patient mobility significantly improves patient outcomes by reducing their risk of suffering from muscle weakness and mental illnesses. It, however, does not end there. Another study from the National Institutes of Health mirrors Dr. Needham’s findings and further shows that early patient mobility can lower a patient’s chances of developing pressure ulcers, blood clots, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

SPH Medical RoWalker for Safe Patient Mobility

Health Problems That Leave Some Hospital Patients Bedridden

Getting out of bed is not easy for some patients, and this is because some of them have medical conditions that affect their mobility. All hospitals are well aware of this. And that awareness has motivated many of them to institute a safe patient handling program to help patients escape the prison that is their hospital bed when needed. Before detailing what such a program entails, let’s take a moment to discuss some of the many medical conditions that can affect a patient’s mobility to the extent that they become bedridden. According to a study published by Cedars-Sinai, one of the largest nonprofit academic medical centers in the U.S, the following conditions can cause severe muscle weakness and make it very difficult for patients to get out of bed on their own:

  • Neuromuscular diseases that cause weakness in the skeletal muscles
  • Certain infections
  • Vitamin deficiencies
  • How Early Patient Mobility Improves Physical and Mental Health

To help patients avoid the additional health problems that can arise from being confined to a bed for too long, the medical teams in most hospitals use a safe patient handling program to help ambulate patients. The benefits of these programs are many. In addition to minimizing a patient’s chances of developing pressure ulcers, blood clots, pneumonia, and UTIs, not to mention making it easier for them to go from one department to another, they also contribute to the following:

  • Improved heart health and overall cardiovascular function
  • Increased muscle mass and a much stronger immune system
  • Improved respiratory function

Early Patient Mobility Published Studies

Along with improved physical health, escaping the confines of one’s hospital bed from time to time also keeps mental health problems at bay, according to several evidence based studies. One of those studies comes from the National Institutes of Health. In that study, researchers found that ambulating patients via safe patient handling programs significantly lowers their chances of suffering from delirium, depression, and other mental health problems.

Why Hospitals Across the Country Are Praising the SPH Medical RoWalker

No patient handling program would be complete without the SPH Medical RoWalker, say hospital medical teams who use them to lift, reposition, transfer, and otherwise ambulate patients. And there is a good reason why they feel this way. Along with mobilizing patients, the SPH Medical Rowalker can carry a portable ventilator, an oxygen tank, IV pole, cardiac monitor, and many other items that long-term hospital patients need the most. To learn more about how these devices improve patient mobility and overall health, consider contacting SPH Medical today.

SPH Medical RoWalker for Safe Patient Mobility
CategoriesPatient Handling

Mobilize Patients Early and Often

by sphmedicaladmin

The SPH Medical RoWalker Helping Mobilize Patients

Studies show the efficacy of mobilize patients early, and its benefits contribute significantly to patient health. Everyone on a health care team shares an interprofessional responsibility to provide treatment. However, the task of delivering ambulatory care typically rests with nurses who spend more time with patients than other health care team members. The SPH Medical RoWalker assists in providing the service that patients require, and it makes delivery easier for nurses.

Considering the Benefits of Early Patient Mobility

Combating the harmful effects of immobility on deconditioned patients, early patient mobility equipment contributes significant benefits. It improves muscle strength for bed-bound patients after days of immobility and inactivity. In addition, it reduces the incidence of delirium. Patients who use it tend to achieve better functional status after hospital release. Experts point to a potentially lower rate of mortality as well.

A reduction in days on a ventilator or in the ICU helps lower the cost of hospital care. When you mobilize patients early it improves respiratory and circulatory function in ICU patients. Getting out of bed and moving around multiple times a day with the RoWalker improves health outcomes significantly. Treatment that can produce a reduced length of stay helps improve patients’ overall quality of life.

As a falls prevention and ambulation tool that mobilizes patients, the RoWalker has proven its value across the country with a 10-year record of reliability. Moreover, early patient mobility does much more than making it easier for patients to move around from one location to another. While it may not occur to others who can move about freely, mobility lets people take care of routine activities of daily life. It provides opportunities for the expression of emotions and gratification of needs that everyone experiences. As an aid to enhancing the body’s ability to repair an injury and heal itself, the RoWalker serves an invaluable purpose.

Assisting Nurses in Providing Care

Research shows that functional decline in patients accompanies immobility. Outcomes include falls, delirium, increased length of hospital stay and an inability to conduct daily activities. Additionally, the loss of ambulatory independence can affect the quality of life. Enabling patients to move about, the SPH Medical RoWalker delivers care efficiently and enhances the safety of care providers. Nurses can rely on the equipment to provide the measure of support that a patient requires. In addition, the design makes it easy for both nurses and patients to use.

Safe Patient Mobility with SPH Medical RoWalker

Understanding the Conveniences

The design of the RoWalker incorporates the features that give patients and nurses assurance of efficiency and safety. With a 400-lb weight capacity, it mobilizes patients early and reduces the length of stay. The effectiveness of the design challenges patients to walk a little further with confidence and without the need for additional falls prevention.

Using the SPH Medical RoWalker provides the confidence and sense of well-being that encourages deconditioned patients with muscle weakness from inactivity to use it. Nurses can facilitate progress without strain or worry as the equipment handles every challenge smoothly and efficiently.

 

  • Movement ControlThe SPH Medical RoWalker supports IV and Oxygen
    Brakes and a directional wheel lock feature control the movement of the RoWalker. The directional locks enable the SPH Medical RoWalker to track in a straight line. Conveniently located and easy to access, the brakes and locks provide safe and reliable ambulation.
  • Access to Oxygen
    An oxygen tank holder with a convenient location on the front of the RoWalker ensures access to oxygen for patients when needed.
  • Seating Comfort and falls prevention
    Seats can flip up and rotate out to make it easy for patients to get into position to use the equipment. The seat flaps allow a patient to take a rest and sit down if they get tired. The seat flaps eliminate the requirement to pull a wheelchair behind a patient to try to catch a falling patient. Padded armrests and hand grips provide the extra comfort level that encourages patients to get the exercise that early patient mobility offers.
  • Height Accommodation
    An adjustable height feature allows the SPH Medical RoWalker to serve patients of any size. The equipment adapts to the height of each patient instead of requiring nurses to provide alternative measures. An adjustable IV pole stands above the unit to allow unimpeded access to the vital supply that patients may need while getting ambulatory exercise.
  • Storage Basket
    On the front of the RoWalker, an attractive metal basket provides a convenient place to store cardiac monitors or other small items that patients may need while away from their room.

Choosing Effective Equipment to Mobilize Patients

Years of development based on feedback from respiratory and physical therapists, nurses and cardiothoracic surgeons have produced the unique ergonomic design of the SPH Medical RoWalker. Initially designed for post cardiac/abdominal surgery patients, it has become the preferred choice for early patient mobility. In addition, major departments in hospitals across the country choose it for complex patient conditions, falls prevention and encouragement to exercise safely.

CategoriesPatient Handling

Banner Health installs SPH Medical patient lifts in Banner University Medical Center Projects

by sphmedicaladmin

https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/facilities-management/banner-university-medical-center-to-open-16-story-tower-nov-6.html

Banner Health is opening their state of the art hospital in downtown Phoenix, Arizona equipped with the latest Safe Patient Handling solutions from SPH Medical to reduce risk of injury to staff and to improve patient care. Banner University Medical Center Phoenix has incorporated overhead ceiling lifts in approximately half of the rooms of the new tower.

Using the new ceiling lifts will enable nursing staff to boost, turn, and transfer patients safely while reducing risk of injury to staff. The hospital will be using the new breathable repositioning sheet that can stay under patients for extended periods of time.


 

The breathable sheet for repositioning in use:

For more information about SPH Medical visit www.sphmedical.com, or contact us via email info@sphmedical.com.

CategoriesPatient Handling

CDC and NiOSH – Safe Patient Handling is a priority

by sphmedicaladmin

Nurses continue to be injured at an alarming rate compared to other professions. With an increasing retirement population of baby boomers and now skilled nurses leaving the workforce for retirement our hospitals are facing a knowledge and skill gap that is difficult to replace. Safe Patient Handling efforts by many hospitals have allowed Nurses to work safely, longer.

The CDC and NiOSH have developed a web page that provides a wide variety of links and resources related to Safe Patient Handling and injury prevention.

Here is an excerpt from the CDC’s website:

Patient Handling Hazards

Rates of musculoskeletal injuries from overexertion in healthcare occupations are among the highest of all U.S. industries. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show that in 2014, the rate of overexertion injuries averaged across all industries was 33 per 10,000 full time workers. By comparison, the overexertion injury rate for hospital workers was twice the average (68 per 10,000), the rate for nursing home workers was over three times the average (107 per 10,000), and the rate for ambulance workers was over five times the average (174 per 10,000).1 The single greatest risk factor for overexertion injuries in healthcare workers is the manual lifting, moving and repositioning of patients, residents or clients, i.e., manual patient handling.

The CDC resource page can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/safepatient/

About SPH Medical, Inc

SPH Medical is a leading provider of clinical education and solutions to help hospitals reduce the risk of staff and patient injuries and their associated costs. SPH Medical focuses on three key areas; education, safe patient handling, and infection prevention.

ICU Patients benefit from Early Patient Mobility

Contact SPH Medial today to help mobilize patient safely, implement early patient mobility programs, improve outcomes and reduce the risk of injury to both patients and staff.

www.sphmedical.com
info@sphmedical.com
Tel: 1-844-3-SPHMED

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