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Tag: patient safety

Home Adaption for Parkinson’s Patients

Written by multicare on . Posted in Blog, Technical Information.

If you are living with Parkinson’s disease or caring for a PD sufferer, you will be well aware that everyday tasks and activities can become challenging. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that mainly affects the motor system. The main three common symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease are:

  • Tremor – shaking in the hand or arm
  • Slowness of movement – physical movements are slower than usual
  • Muscle stiffness – stiffness and tension in the muscles, which can also result in painful muscle cramps

While there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease yet, there are devices and equipment available which make everyday tasks for Parkinson’s patients less stressful. Adapting a patients’ home with specialist patient handling equipment can also help to maintain independence and self-respect.

Here are some ideas to improve the quality of life for PD sufferers.

Patient handling equipment ideal for Parkinson’s patients:

Multicare Modular Rise and Recliner Chair

Parkinson's patientsParkinson's patients

Parkinson's patients Parkinson's patients Parkinson's patients Parkinson's patients Parkinson's patients

The Modular is a classic and comfortable rise and recline chair. It is available with 5 back designs, 4 motor actions and supportive scrolled arms. This helps Parkinson’s patients to sit and mobilise with confidence. The Modular is available in four standard sizes or completely bespoke, with a vast range of colours and fabrics making it perfect for all users and home environments. The chair can be specified up to 50 stones SWL, and has many options such as massage, heat, or drop arms for easy transfers. The option of fine Scottish leather proves that the correct anatomic support can be combined with cocooning luxury! Call us today for a chair assessment!

Entrina Air Mattress

Parkinson's patients

The Entrina Air Mattress provides maximum pressure relief using I.P.S. (Intelligent Pressure Sensing technology) with five different patient weight settings. The Micro-ventilated cells allow a great air circulation and patient moisture and temperature regulation to relieve tension on pressure points and painful muscle strain. The Entrina mattress is composed of a 2″ foam base 20 individual 5-inch tall air cells so it is suitable for medium to high risk patients and for pressure ulcer treatment up to stage III.

Multicare Turning Discs

Parkinson's patients

The Multicare Turning Discs are designed to make transfers easier and safer for Parkinson’s patients. The Turning Disc is available in either soft or hard material to provide a smooth, controlled transfer in confined spaces. Whether your patient requires support when transferring from their bed, wheelchair, car etc, the Turning Discs will provide a secure transfer for any environment.

Aquatec Ocean VIP Shower / Commode Chair Range

Parkinson's patientsParkinson's patients

The Ocean shower and commode chair range is stylish, easy to move and simple to clean. Parkinson’s patients use the Ocean shower chair with walk-in showers to provide comfort and ease during personal care. The chair is height adjustable, the armrests lift up and the soft seat is easily removable for cleaning or storing away. The chair comes in two different sizes and is available with Tilt-in-Space and back angle recline, making it suitable for all users. Supplied with a commode bowl, adjustable backrest and aperture seat, The Ocean really is the ultimate shower chair.

Paris Profiling Bed

Parkinson's PatientsParkinson's patients

The Paris is a stylish profiling bed for Parkinson’s patients featuring high low functionality and four section profiling action. It has a welded steel mattress platform for strength and longevity, and high-quality motors for years of problem free use. The Beech design blends into any home or care environment, with a variety of head and footboard designs and concealed castors. The Paris bed really does have that ‘non-medical’ look.

For more information on Parkinson’s disease, please visit the National Parkinsons Foundation website: www.parkinsons.org
Can’t see what you’re looking for? We have a warehouse full of patient handling and mobility aids from our old premises. Call us today to find out more.

*The products shown on this post are a guide for carers or users with Parkinson’s disease. Please seek medical advice from your doctor or occupational therapist.

Portable Handling Equipment: Perfect for travelling

Written by multicare on . Posted in Blog, Technical Information, Uncategorized.

Its holiday time! Sun, sea and Sangria!

Choosing a holiday destination is part of the excitement. But try searching for a suitable destination to cope with disabilities – that can be challenging!

When you live with a disability, the success of a holiday depends on extensive preparation and in-depth planning for both travel and accommodation. This applied particularly if you require support and handling equipment for everyday use.

After choosing accommodation, deciding what equipment is suitable to take with you or what portable handling equipment is available can be quite overwhelming.

We want to make sure that your holiday is as stress-free as possible, and that you enjoy every moment of it. So we’ve rounded up a list of portable handling equipment which is perfect for travelling with and taking on holiday.

6 Portable handling devices perfect for travelling:

1. Voyager Portable Hoist

portable handling equipment portable handling equipment

The Oxford Voyager Portable hoist is a great lifting solution and easily transportable. Requiring no permanent electrical supply, the Voyager hoist is ideal for short-term or temporary solutions and great as a long-term solution too. It is suitable for all environments and mounts and dismounts easily without the need for tools.

When combined with the Easytrack gantry system, the Voyager Portable hoist is perfect for room hoisting when travelling.Freestanding, easy and quick to assemble, both Voyager and Easytrack disassemble into lightweight parts with dedicated transport bags available.

2. Journey Standing Hoist

portable handling equipment

The Journey Standaid is one of the most compact standing hoists on the market today.

The aluminium Journey is lightweight and foldable, making it perfect for onward transportation. The aluminium design and structure ensures a strong and durable assembly, with a safe working load of 155kg.

The hoist is dismantled without tools and folds quickly for travelling and storage when not in use.

3. Medex Air Overlay Mattress

portable handling equipment

The Medex Air Overlay is designed to be used on top of an ordinary mattress, providing protection and comfort for patients who are susceptible to tissue degradation. The power unit has an adjustable air pressure feature to suit individual patients weight, providing optimal pressure relief and better sleeping quality. The Medex is ideal for travelling as it is quiet, energy efficient, light, easy to operate and easy to fold.

A perfect choice for low to medium risk ulcer treatment up to stage II.

4. Slim Cushion

portable handling equipment

The Slim Cushion is a superbly comfortable 2.5inch cushion offering comfort when seated. The cushion is used on all kinds of chairs and wheelchairs, to increase comfort and reduce pressure at entry level. The Slim Cushion is extremely light and comes with a black PU water cover.

Check out our other pressure care cushions here. 

5. The Birdie Folding Hoist

portable handling equipment

The Birdie Folding Hoist is designed for comfort, transportation and practicality. Giving maximum patient space, it allows easy rotation and turning when hoisting. It folds simply and quickly without tools and takes up minimal space when folded in an upright position. With a clear hand control, foot-operated leg spread and ergonomic push bar, the Birdie is simple and extremely practical.

6. The ReTurn

portable handling equipment

The ReTurn is a simple, yet multi-functional transportation platform. Its design stimulates the natural pattern of moving from a sit-to-stand position. It strengthens a range of muscles and allows patients to move in any direction through a pivoting platform. The ReTurn is very easy to use and comes with a removable base, which is perfect for travelling and onwards transportation.

7. Wheelchair in Bag

portable handling equipment

This ultra-lightweight, attendant-propelled wheelchair is ideal for both outdoor and indoor use. Complete with its own carry-bag, this wheelchair is great for travel as it is manageable enough to take on aeroplanes, ships and public transport. Contact us to find out more about the Wheelchair in a Bag.

Get in touch for more information on our portable handling equipment.

Moving and Handling Plan: 5 points to consider

Written by multicare on . Posted in Blog, Technical Information.

Moving and handling plans are implemented to reduce the risk of injury to staff and patients using patient handling equipment.

Moving and handling activities are a key part of carers everyday routine within the health and social care industry. Their duties can range from using moving equipment, assisting residents in moving, bathing and dressing, plus much more.

If moving and handling tasks aren’t carried out correctly, there is a danger of serious injury to carers and patients. Any care provider or organisation that uses patient handling equipment will need to introduce safety procedures and risk assessments to avoid any accidents and injuries.

As an employee, it is important that you follow an appropriate system of work when using the equipment that is provided. Try to avoid manual handling tasks which could result in an injury or assess risks that cannot be avoided. Enforcing safety measures will help to reduce the risk, where reasonably practicable.

5 points to consider when writing a moving and handling plan:

  • Competency: Ensure that the carer(s) conducting the task have been suitably trained to do so.
  • Plan ahead: Identify what is needed to reduce the risk for all moving and handling tasks. This includes techniques, equipment, accessories and number of carers needed.
  • Risk assessments: Ensure there is a current risk assessment for the procedure you are undertaking. The risk assessment should include; techniques to be used, equipment type/size, the number of carers needed and any other relevant information. The risk assessment should be reviewed constantly, specifically when the patient’s needs change.
  • Service of equipment: Ensure that any equipment you are using is checked daily and has had a LOLER inspection within the last 6 months with documentation. The date of the next service should be clearly marked on the equipment. Click here to check which work equipment requires regular LOLER testing.
  • Cooperation and communication: When moving a patient, constantly cooperate and communicate with both the patient and the carer assisting. Cooperation helps to ensure that you and the assisting carer know what you are doing. Communicating the task helps to reassure the patient that they are in safe hands.

For more information on moving and handling plans, click here.

Carers Week 2017

Written by multicare on . Posted in Blog, Latest News.

From the 12 – 18th of June, we’ll be joining the thousands of individuals and organisations to celebrate Carers Week 2017.

Carers Week is an annual campaign which raises awareness of caring. It highlights the challenges carers face and recognises the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK.

By coming together and organising events/activities, we are drawing attention to just how important caring is.

Last year we started a Star Carer Competition in order to celebrate Carers Week. We asked members of the public and healthcare community to nominate a carer who is an inspiration to the carer community.

So for carers week this year, we’ve decided to bring it back!

Treat your star carer for Carers Week 2017!

How can you get involved? It’s simple!

Do you know a carer who goes above and beyond their normal duties to help others? Do you feel that your carer deserves to be recognised for their constant kindness towards others? Or perhaps you know a carer who is an asset to the healthcare community? Let us know why your carer is a star by filling out the short form below. Your carer will be automatically entered into our competition for a chance to win a luxury prize! The winner will be announced at the end of Carers Week, good luck!

Changing Places

We'd love to support you on your Changing Places journey! Whether you are just starting or already have advanced plans, we're here to support every step of the way. Complete the form below, and one of our team will be in touch to discuss how we can help.

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For more information on Carers Week, click here.

Join in the conversation on Twitter! Tweet us using the hashtag #CarersWeek

A breakdown of LOLER tests

Written by multicare on . Posted in Blog, Technical Information.

This post aims to help healthcare providers to gain a basic understanding of LOLER tests and requirements within the healthcare industry.

LOLER regulations (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Requirements, 1998) aim to ensure that all lifting equipment and lifting accessories in the workplace are used in a safe and appropriate manner.

The regulations state that all lifting equipment should have suitable strength and stability for its designed use. LOLER also states that the Safe Working Load (SWL) and maintenance dates must be clearly visible on the equipment and any faults are reported immediately.

LOLER is implemented to prevent the risk of injuries or fatalities which may occur from the use of lifting equipment within the workplace.

What equipment requires LOLER tests?

When deciding whether LOLER applies to you, you need to ask yourself two questions. Firstly, is it work equipment and secondly, is it lifting equipment.

Work equipment:

Owning a piece of lifting equipment doesn’t automatically mean that it requires LOLER testing. The equipment has to be specified as ‘work equipment’ for LOLER to be applied.

“The equipment has to be defined as ‘work equipment’, which is defined in the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) as ‘any machinery appliance, apparatus, tool or installation for use at work (whether excusively or not)’. (HSIS4)

Any lifting equipment used by an employee in the workplace, including the healthcare industry, will be covered by LOLER. In the healthcare sector, the main exemptions where LOLER doesn’t apply are:

  • If a member of the public purchases equipment for their own use at home.
  • If equipment has been loaned by an employer or community provider for a member of the public to use only for themselves by family or unpaid carers.

LOLER will not be applied in these circumstances as they are not defined as ‘work equipment’. However, lifting equipment that has been loaned will still have to comply with the Health and Safety At Work Act 1974 section 3 (to provide safe equipment and maintain it, so far as is reasonably practicable).

Lifting equipment:

Lifting equipment is defined as equipment which lifts or lowers loads as a principle function. So any equipment in the healthcare sector that is primarily used to lift a person requires LOLER tests. A lot of equipment in the healthcare industry has the ability to lift a person as well as its normal operational functions i.e. beds, trolleys. This equipment does not require a LOLER test because its sole purpose isn’t lifting or lowering a person. However, if such equipment is used at work, the provisions of PUWER will still apply.

“Height adjustablility alone does not mean that LOLER applies to the equipment.” (HSIS4)

A ceiling or mobile hoist, however, is exclusively used to lift a person and support their weight. Therefore this equipment would require LOLER inspections. Here are some examples of lifting equipment which requires testing under LOLER.

  • Mobile hoists
  • Ceiling hoists
  • Standing/raising aids
  • Slings (lifting accessory)
  • Bath hoists/lifts (Known as ‘floor mounted hoists’ which are used to lift and lower a person into their bath)
  • Passenger lifts
  • Stair lifts

u-600x6002144_GH1_2010_frit_1066x1600v-600x6005277_01_SitOnComfort_Kids_2013_frit_1066x1600p-460-mermaid-bath-hoist-multicare_90x90-600x6006396_01_LP15_N_loc_2014_1200x1600 6375_02_TL20_loc_2013_1170x1600

Who’s responsibility is it to ensure LOLER is enforced in the workplace?

LOLER regulations impose a duty on owners of lifting equipment, business owners and employers to ensure that all lifting equipment is suitable and stable for its proposed use. This includes regular inspections and maintenance checks under LOLER & PUWER.

“These Regulations (LOLER) place duties on people and companies who own, operate or have control over lifting equipment. This includes all businesses and organisations whose employees use lifting equipment, whether owned by them or not.” (HSIS4)

What does a LOLER test consist of? 

A qualified person, who has enough practical and technical knowledge and experience of lifting equipment, is able to conduct a thorough LOLER test and decide the result. The trained examiner will have the ability to determine whether equipment is corroding or deteriorating. When conducting the test, the examiner will check the following:

  • Name/address of the equipment location.
  • The manufacturer, date of manufacture, serial number etc of the lifting equipment.
  • Date of its last inspection and the date of its next inspection.
  • The safe working load (SWL) of the equipment.
  • Identify the date and type of examination the engineer is conducting (LOLER only/Full service) and when the next test is due.
  • Identify and describe any faults with the equipment which have or will become a danger to users.
  • Describe any repairs or alterations that are required to cure any fault which could be a danger to users if left unattended.
  • Visual and functional checks.
  • Name of examiner and business address.
  • The name of the person signing or authenticating the examination.
  • State whether the equipment is safe or unsafe to use.

A detailed version of LOLER test requirements can be found here.

How often does my lifting equipment require LOLER testing?

Before any lifting equipment is used for the first time you will need to guarantee, with physical evidence, that the equipment has had a thorough examination and is safe to use. If you are unable to obtain this information, the equipment should not be used before being tested.

Periodic examinations are required if the lifting equipment is exposed to conditions which can cause deterioration or result in fatal/serious injury. By LOLER regulations, the following intervals should be observed depending on the equipment and its purpose use.

Thorough LOLER tests should be conducted at least every 6 months on all lifting equipment and any accessories. It is advised that daily routine checks are carried out before any lifting equipment is used. Any faults or defects should be reported immediately and the equipment shouldn’t be used until a specialist has conducted a thorough inspection.

Further reading:

To find out more on LOLER examinations, click here.

To find out more about LOLER regulations in the workplace, click here.

Let us help you comply with LOLER and PUWER today. Contact us for more information on our LOLER tests and maintenance inspections. 

The proper use of extension straps – A step-by-step guide from Guldmann

Written by multicare on . Posted in Blog, Latest News, Technical Information.

To ensure the proper use of extension straps from Guldmann, please read the step-by-step instructions below.

To purchase the Guldmann extension straps click here.

What are extension straps?

Extension straps are used in situations to achieve various sitting positions or where different heights are required.

21. Extensions Straps

 

Follow these simple steps:

Before you carry out a patient transfer, be careful when you are attaching the lifting sling’s straps on the hooks.

Check that the straps have been correctly placed in the lifting hanger’s hooks.

When pressing the ‘up’ button on the hand control to lift the patient, check again that all straps remain
correctly placed in the lifting hanger’s hooks.

extension straps

Step 1:

Put the extensions strap through the loop on the sling.

extension straps

Step 2:

Fold the strap, as shown.

extension straps

Step 3:

Tighten the extension strap around the loop of the sling.

extension straps

Step 4:

When using the extension straps e.g. on the shoulder straps of the sling, the patient the sling will be more leant back and the angle in the hip will be more open.

extension straps

If you have any questions or queries regarding Guldmann extension straps, please feel free to contact us here.

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Call us today on 0800 298 6000 or email [email protected]

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New Lifting Hanger by Guldmann

Written by multicare on . Posted in Blog, Featured products, Latest News.

We’re happy to announce that Guldmann have introduced a new and improved lifting hanger for all Guldmann ceiling track hoists.

The new hanger will replace all previous hangers in the Guldmann product range which have a 2 and 4 attachment point.

How can you benefit from the new lifting hanger?

Lower weight:

  • The new hanger is 30% lighter than the previous 4-point hanger, this makes it much easier to move, and less likely to hit your user.

Increased strength:

  • The maximum load has been increased to 375kg, making it usable for heavier users.

Improved comfort:

  • The new hanger has a soft, seamless surface meaning easier and quicker cleaning of the hanger and making it more comfortable to touch. Furthermore, ‘shock absorbers’ are fitted in the plastic at the ends of the hanger so your bathroom tiles don’t get damaged anymore!
Guldmann Old Style LIfting Hanger
Old style hangers
Guldmann new style lifting hanger
New lifting hanger

 

Range of sizes:

The new hanger is available in sizes XS, S and M. All previous lifting hangers are now discontinued and have been replaced with this new one. The Extra Small and Small lifting hanger are ideal for smaller and paediatric patients, keeping the sling straps straight and the user in a midline position.

The new lifting hanger is compatible with all Guldmann ceiling hoists. The hanger uses a ‘hook’ attachment, but an adaptor is available for old style GH2 hoists with a ‘snap-hook’ end.

Contact us today to discuss the benefits of the new Guldmann lifting hanger.

Introducing A New Sling Tagging System

Written by multicare on . Posted in Blog, Featured products, Latest News, Technical Information.

We’re pleased to inform you that after reviewing our current sling tagging process, we have decided to implement a new sling tagging system.

The new sling tagging process will ensure that your slings are safe to use and clearly state when their next LOLER inspection is due.

Problems with existing solutions:

  • Lack of traceability.
  • Current tags can get in the way when using your sling.
  • Some providers handwrite the LOLER dates on the tag which looks unprofessional.
  • The tags are large and unpleasant to look at.
  • Not all providers tag their slings, making it harder for users to recognise if their sling has been LOLER tested.

Our solution on the other hand:

  • Our new sling tag is smaller and discreet, making it more appealing to look upon.
  • The LOLER dates are instantly visible and the sling tag is wash resistant.
  • The new sling tag can be applied to any sling.
  • Our new design means that it will not be uncomfortable when using your sling.
  • The tag cannot be removed and put on a different sling.

Read more on LOLER 1998 Regulations here.

Please Contact Us for more details regarding our new sling tagging system.

Choosing the right Assisted Bath

Written by multicare on . Posted in Blog, Latest News, Technical Information.

Bathing is an important part of your patients care routine, so choosing the right assisted bath for your patients needs is essential.

Bathing has many beneficial factors. Not only does it ensure your patients’ hygiene, bathing also offers therapeutic remedies for certain skin conditions, such as pain in joints and muscles, calms emotional stress and much more.

Read our 5 hints & tips for choosing the right assisted bath for your patient:

1. Integral Seat

  • Does your patient require extra assistance when getting themselves in and out of the bath? Perhaps you should consider a bath with an integral seat, such as the Lucerne bath.

2. Temperature

  • How do you test the temperature of the water? TMV3 taps ensure the water is safe for use and will not scaled or burn. A floating thermometer is also handy to keep! For the HSE guide on ‘Managing Hot Water Risks’, click here.

3. Support In The Bath

  • Observe how the patient is to be supported in the bath. Are they  able to slip? Consider a seat with a lap belt for additional support. Alternatively, there are inflatable cushions available, or consider mounting a ceiling hoist to support the patient in a sling.

4. Hoist & Sling

  • Does your patient require hoisting in and out of the bath? A mesh material for the sling is suitable and extra padding if required.
  • Explore our range of slings here.
  • View our floor mounted bath hoist here.

5. Servicing

  • Ensure the bath is regularly serviced. An annual service is required under the PUWER regulations.If your bath has a lifting function, it may require a LOLER inspection too. Click here to find out more about our service and maintenance contracts.

Explore our wide range of bathing equipment and accessories here. If you have any questions or queries about our products, get in touch.

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Registered Office: Progress House, Jacknell Road, Dodwells Bridge Industrial Estate, Hinckley. LE10 3BS