Open Forum

Hello,

Our recently developed ambulatory dept has recently had 2 patients who were unable to move themselves (even with caregiver help) back to the device that assisted them in arriving at their appt. 

I am wondering if any of you have lift assistive devices in your ambulatory settings? If yes, what devices do you suggests, what do you say stay away from? Our main goal is patient and staff safety; as well as to assist patients who may have fallen to the the ground, or (as above) are unable to move themselves back to a wheelchair or unable to ambulate to use the restroom. There are several policies and procedures in older forum posts that I have found, but none specific to the devices in use.

Thank you!

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Sarah Orr
Cottage Health Systems
Santa Barbara CA
(513) 254-7792
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Sarah,

While our process is not perfect we have had some success.

Our system is trying to standardize to using Liko brand lifts from Hill-Rom. We have learning materials and competency tools in or LMS so makes education easier to have a standard. Also we have been able to rent devices with 1 day notice if we are aware of patient needs when they schedule their appointment. While tjis does not solve for the unexpected it helps with smaller more remote practices that may use a lift less than once a year.

Hope this helps.

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Ray Snider DNP MSN RN NEA-BC
Emory Healthcare
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