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In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, the concept of Early Patient Mobility (EPM) has emerged as a critical component in patient recovery and overall health outcomes. As healthcare professionals and institutions worldwide strive to enhance patient care, EPM stands as a testament to innovative and effective patient care strategies.

The Evolution of Early Patient Mobility

Historically, patient mobility was often overlooked, with prolonged bed rest frequently prescribed for a wide range of health conditions. However, the approach to patient mobility has undergone a significant transformation over time. According to a study titled “Perspectives on the evolution of mobile (mHealth) technologies and application to rehabilitation,” the shift towards prioritizing patient mobility is evident and is increasingly being recognized for its substantial impact on patient recovery and rehabilitation.

The Impact of Early Patient Mobility Programs in Hospitals

The implementation of EPM programs in hospitals has been nothing short of revolutionary. Evidence supporting their effectiveness is compelling. The study “Early mobility in the hospital: lessons learned from the STRIDE program” highlights how EPM programs have contributed to improved patient outcomes and reduced the need for post-acute institutional care. These programs, focused on getting patients moving as early as possible, have proven successful in reducing hospital stays, enhancing patient satisfaction, and improving overall health outcomes.

The Role of the Cardiac Walker in Early Patient Mobility Programs

Integral to the success of EPM programs is the use of cardiac walkers. These devices provide the necessary support and stability for patients to begin moving safely and confidently. They are an essential tool in the arsenal of EPM, facilitating patient mobility and contributing significantly to patient recovery and rehabilitation.

Innovations by SPH Medical Inc in Supporting Early Mobility Programs

Among the pioneers in supporting EPM through innovative solutions is SPH Medical Inc. Their comprehensive line of Safe Patient Handling Solutions and Early Mobility Walkers has revolutionized EPM in hospitals worldwide. SPH Medical Inc’s products epitomize the perfect blend of safety, effectiveness, and innovation, significantly enhancing patient care.

The Gold Standard of Cardiac or Safety Platform Walkers: Bure XL Walker, Bure Rise and Go Walker, and Bure Rise and Go DB Walkers

In the realm of cardiac walkers, the Bure XL Walker, Bure Rise and Go Walker, and Bure Rise and Go DB Walkers stand as the gold standard. These walkers, known for their superior design, durability, and safety features, have become the preferred choice for healthcare professionals. They offer unparalleled support and stability, enabling patients to move with confidence and ease.

The Bure Standard Walker: A Cost-Effective Entry-Level Cardiac Walker

For hospitals looking to implement EPM programs without compromising on quality or safety, the Bure Standard Walker provides a cost-effective solution. Despite being an entry-level cardiac walker, it offers the same high standards of safety and support characteristic of the Bure range of walkers.

The evolution of EPM and its impact on patient care is profound. The continued importance of innovation in delivering effective EPM solutions cannot be overstated. As healthcare continues to evolve, companies like SPH Medical Inc remain at the forefront, delivering innovative, effective, and safe solutions for patient mobility.

SPH Medical: A Pioneer in Early Patient Mobility Programs

Since 2012, SPH Medical has been at the forefront of implementing successful Early Patient Mobility programs in leading hospitals across the country. Their unwavering commitment to enhancing patient care, coupled with their innovative range of products, has contributed significantly to reducing the length of stay and improving patient outcomes. These achievements serve as a testament to the efficacy, safety, and superiority of their solutions.

For hospitals considering the integration of Safety Platform Walkers or Cardiac Walkers into their patient care strategies, SPH Medical is the go-to expert. Their professional and experienced team is ready to discuss your needs, providing tailored solutions that align with your hospital’s specific requirements. They understand that every hospital is unique, and so too are their patient mobility needs.

Don’t hesitate to leverage the expertise and innovation offered by SPH Medical. Reach out to them today to discuss your needs and request a quote. The journey towards enhanced patient care and improved health outcomes begins with a simple conversation. With SPH Medical, you’re not just choosing a product; you’re choosing a partner committed to your success.

A Practical Solution for Early Mobility in the Acute Care Setting

By Amber Perez MHA, CSPHP

The benefits of early and progressive mobility programs are well-established in the acute care setting. Greater than a decade of published research validates the positive patient outcomes associated with implementing an early mobility (ICU-Based) and progressive mobility (acute care inpatient) program as an essential part of the patients plan of care. Marra and Ely of Vanderbilt University published the groundbreaking research establishing an intensive care patient protocol the ABCDE (now the ABCDEFG) method for reducing the risk of Delirium in ICU patients. Delirium, once under-diagnosed and rarely treated, is now recognized as a primary indicator for mortality and identified early in most ICU’s in the United States. Vanderbilt University’s groundbreaking results contributed to drastic improvements in the quality of life and mortality rates of an immeasurable number of patients as a result of widespread adoption of the methods and tools published in the protocol. One of the key components of the ABCDE method is the ‘E’ or Early Mobility intervention. Subsequent research further identifies benefits of mobility (early and progressive) to include reduced risk of hospital acquired pressure injuries, ventilator acquired pneumonias, patient falls, hospital readmissions, and length of stay. In addition, patients experience an improved discharge disposition1.

Hospitals all over the world are prescribing mobility as a standard component of patient care. While mobility programs offer exciting and promising outcomes and quality improvements for patients, it is not without challenges and risk. Without proper planning and integration with a facility Safe Patient Handling & Mobility (SPHM) program, risk for patient handling injury and patient falls risk increase.

In an independent survey of ICU and Hospital nursing leaders – the barriers reported with early mobility protocol implementation include: lack of caregiver resources, increased risk of patient falls, and risk of patient handling injury. In addition, nursing leaders reported greatest concern with “out of bed activities” specifically, “standing and ambulation”. Many leaders reported having advanced ICU beds capable of assisting with many tasks of the early mobility protocols- including, tilt table/ hemodynamic training, sitting, edge of bed, and early weight bearing. The greatest concerns for staff and caregiver safety emerged around patient standing and walking. Of the nursing leaders surveyed, the equipment used to assist in standing and walking patients ranked as most preferred for mobility activities as follows:

ICU/Inpatient Safety Walkers 66%
Ceiling lift with walking sling 24%
Mobile lift with walking sling 8%
Mechanical stand aid with removable footplate 2%

The following are comments captured on the survey related to each category:

ICU/ inpatient Safety walkers:
“Safest option available”, “Fits well in crowded rooms”, “Allows us to walk patients out of the room”, “Staff prefer this option”, “Intuitive, easy to operate”, “O2, IV and devices have a place to go on the walker”

Ceiling lift with walking sling:
“Not all rooms have ceiling lifts”, “Only works well with a XY ceiling track”, “We do not have dedicated walking slings” “Great option if we can find the walking slings” “limited to in room activity”

Mobile lift with walking sling:
“Mobile lifts are too big and bulky in the ICU room” “Cumbersome”, “No place to put O2 or devices”, “Improved safety, prevents falls”

Mechanical stand aid with removable footplate:
“Footplate not removable on our device”, “Not a good option for an unsteady patient”, “no place to put oxygen or IV”

Based on the majority of feedback, utilizing a safety platform walker is the preferred equipment for accessibility, safety, function, and efficiency.

Below is a decision table to help you identify which safety platform walker is right for you.

Walker
Features
Patient specific recommendations

RoWalker Features

400lb weight capacity
Fixed seats that rotate and flip
Directional locking castors
Accessory basket
O2 tank and IV pole holder
Manual height adjustment
Width adjustable platform

RoWalker – Patient specific recommendations

Ideal for patients able to come to a standing position independently
Consider when sling management is a barrier
Simple and intuitive
Higher weight capacity
Conducive to therapy activities
Consider for patients with sternal precautions

Rise & Go Platform Walker Features

330lb weight capacity
Safety sling with hygiene strap
Accessory basket
O2 tank and IV pole holder
Power stand assist
Directional locking castor available
Extra-wide adjustable platform
Swing away shin pads
Splash/water resistant design

Rise & Go Platform Walker – Patient specific recommendations

Ideal for deconditioned ICU level early mobility – power stand assist
Hygiene strap on sling allows OT’s to work with patient on ADL’s- water resistant design allows bathing therapy sessions with limited water spray
Swing away shin pads allow for progression in ambulation
Ideal for taller and smaller patients, longest stroke length on actuator
Small footprint for easy storage

XL Platform Walker Features

500lb weight capacity
Extra wide frame adjustments
O2 tank and IV Pole holder
Accessory basket
Shin pad accessory- removable
Extra wide adjustable platform

XL Platform Walker – Patient specific recommendations

Ideal for ambulatory bariatric patients
Power rise assists with sit to stand
Ideal for patients who are not a high fall risk
Patients with O2 and IV’s may be useful with therapy.

References:

Winkleman C, Johnson K, Hejal R, et al. Examining the positive effects of exercise in intubated adults in the ICU: a prospective repeated measure clinical study. Intensive Critical Care Nursing. 2012

Vollman K. Early progressive mobility: strategies for successful and safe achievement to impact short and long-term outcomes.

Roberts M, Johnson LA, Lalonde TL. Early mobility in the intensive care unit: Standard equipment vs a mobility platform. American Journal of Critical Care.

Marra A, Frimpong K, Ely EW. The ABCDEF Implementation Bundle. Korean Journal of Critical Care Medicine (2383-4870). 2016

Pottenger BC, Pronovost PJ, Kreif J, et.al. Towards improving hospital workflows; an evaluation of resources to mobilize patients. Journal of Nursing Management. 2019

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The Evolution of Early Patient Mobility and Its Impact on Healthcare