With the increasing number of patients being cared for in ambulatory-care (i.e. outpatient facilities) and home settings, it is essential to understand the procedures of proper cleaning and care of medical products and assistive devices for a safe patient environment. Infection control includes proper hygiene, cleaning, disinfection of equipment, sterilization, and the safe storage of these devices. For more detailed information, please follow the manufacturer's instructions on the product label and/or user manual.
Disposable materials facilitate infection control efforts
Positioning and sliding sheets
Sources:
Handicare Inc. (formerly Prism Medical Ltd) has the vision to change the way safe patient moving and handling is viewed and taught. From this vision emerged the "2011 Moving and Handling Residency", in partnership with the University of Toronto, McMaster University, and many valued community organizations and institutions. Throughout the eight-week residency, fourteen graduating Occupational Therapy students received intensive theory-based and hands-on moving and handling best practices education, and then went out into the community to educate clients, caregivers, and health care providers in the home and at health care facilities. Through this initiative, students met with over 300 individuals with diverse moving and handling needs. The following case study is inspired by these clients and their caregivers and reflects the broad spectrum of moving and handling issues that were seen and the solutions that were identified.
The Client
Matthew is a lively, happy, seven-year-old boy, whose contagious smile lights up a room! Always the social butterfly, Matthew decided that he was ready to meet the world at 24 weeks gestation, and as a result of his premature delivery, he is now living with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. Matthew currently lives with his family in a back-split home with multiple levels, and also has the support of a full-time nurse to help manage his medical needs.
The Issue
To date, Matthew’s caregivers have been manually lifting him. However, as Matthew grows and develops, transfers have become more physically demanding, and stressful for everyone involved. Matthew is G-tube fed and requires oxygen to help him breathe, therefore adding additional complexities to his moving and handling needs. Another consideration is that while Matthew sleeps and plays on the lower level of the back-split home, it is important to the family that they are together for meals at the kitchen table on the ground floor. Six steps separate these two floors of the house, and Matthew’s caregivers are currently carrying him up and down several times per day.
Moving and Handling Solution
Recognizing the risks of their current situation, Matthew’s parents have decided to invest in significant home modifications as well as moving and handling equipment. These changes will include the installation of two Handicare (Prism Medical) ceiling track lifts – one on the lower level of the home, and the second on the main floor, which will be used for transfers in and out of the supportive chair used at mealtime. In addition, a chair lift will be installed to move Matthew between the two levels of the home.
The family is very excited about these changes. In particular, safer and easier moving and handling using the appropriate equipment will be of tremendous value as Matthew starts school this fall!
Sources:
The Handicare Simplicity 950 Stairlift is specially designed for straight staircases only. The Simplicity 950 set the standard for reliability, affordability and ease of use.
Power Supply | 100 – 240V~ |
Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
Current | 3.6 Amp |
Power Consumption | 360 Watt |
Weight capacity | 310 lbs |
Weight capacity with hinge | 265 lbs |
Angle of inclination | 27° – 50° |
Angle of inclination with hinge | 37° – 50° |
Speed | 23 feet per minute |
Staircase length (flight) | 3 ft – 23 ft |
Rail type | Aluminium |
A | Minimum swivel radius | 26 ¾" |
B | Wall to inner seat back | 3" |
C | Seat depth | 14 ½" |
D | Minimum folded width | 11 ¼" |
E | Minimum open width | 22 ⅞" |
F | Armrest width – external | 23 ⅜" |
G | Armrest width – internal | 18 ¾" |
H | Seat back height | 15 ¾" |
I | Footplate to seat height | 15 ⅜" – 19 ¼" |
J | Minimum footplate height | 2" |
Minimum track intrusion into staircase | 6 ¼" |
The easy-to-use operating toggle is located at the end of the armrest. The Handicare stairlift is activated by holding the toggle control in the direction of desired travel with either your hand or wrist.
The operating toggle is supplied on the right armrest as standard but can be fitted on either side.
The key-operated on/off switch enables and disables the entire stairlift system—a useful feature for public staircases or to prevent unauthorized use.
The switch is located under the armrest's operating toggle. As standard, two (2) keys are included with the Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift.
ON position: When the key switch is in the "horizontal" position (key pointing up/down the stairs) the stairlift can be operated using the operating toggle or remote control.
OFF position: When the key switch is in the "vertical" position (key in line with armrest) the stairlift cannot be operated by either operating toggle or remote control.
The battery will continue to charge when the key switch is in the off position.
The Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift can only be operated from the operating toggle when both of the armrests are fully folded down for user safety.
Convenience is also important in a stairlift therefore, the stairlift can be operated with the wireless remote controls when the armrests are folded up. This means the chair can be sent to any park position or point on the rail to maximize space on the stairs.
The Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift chair has an emergency stop button under the seat. In case of an emergency, this button can be pushed to immediately deactivate the unit, preventing the stairlift from traveling or any operation from the toggle in the armrest and wireless remotes.
Please be aware that the button may sometimes be active by accident. Follow the unlocking procedure to regain functionality. Simply twist the button in the direction shown by the arrows on the button.
The On/Off Switch, also called Power Button, is standard on the carriage and switches the power on the stairlift on or off.
Power "On": When the on/off switch is "on" the in symbol ( | ) is pushed in and the stairlift will charge and operate normally.
Power "Off": When the on/off switch is "off" the out symbol ( O ) is pushed in and the stairlift will not operate from toggle or the wireless remotes, and the stairlift will not charge.
The LED digital diagnostic display is on the downside panel of the stairlift carriage. The numbers displayed will help the user identify the status of their stairlift or provide further fault finding issues to a certified technician or engineer.
The diagnostic codes are listed in the user manual however, it is most recommended if a user experiences a problem with their Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift, to take note of the display code and then contact an authorized Handicare dealer.
See our Simplicity 950 Stairlift – Diagnostic Display Guide
The manually folding footrest of the Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift has safety edges that will automatically stop the stairlift during travel if an obstruction is detected and becomes jammed between the footrest and the stairs.
If the footrest safety sensor is activated and the stairlift has stopped, simply move the stairlift in the opposite direction and remove the obstruction to continue with your journey.
The footrest can be manually folded up when the stairlift is not in use to maximize the clearance space on the stairs.
The footrest measures 12.6" x 13.4" and has an anti-slip carpeted surface for added safety.
The Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift comes with a clip-style seat belt. The seat belt can be released by pressing on both side of the buckle.
Before operating the stairlift the user should always be fastened in with the seat belt.
The stairlift speed is controlled electronically; the soft start and stop design reduces the perception of acceleration and deceleration making the journey smooth for the user. This also eliminates jolting for the user thus reducing impact on the users back and chances of forward movement.
The quiet motor drive mechanisms operate on 24V and are safely enclosed in the carriage by a neutral grey color and easy to clean cover. These safety covers are equipped with safety sensors that will automatically stop if the stairlift in the event an obstruction is trapped between the carriage and the stairs.
The Simplicity 950 carriage also houses the digital diagnostic display, on/off switch and stairlift batteries.
The Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift is battery powered. The stairlift runs on two (2) 12V lead-acid batteries—at least 7Ah should be used.
The stairlift batteries provide back up in the event of a power failure and will maintain charge for up to 30 idle hours on a full charge. On average, fully charged batteries should be able to travel up and down the stairs at least 10 times (on 13 step staircase) without any charge from the power supply.
The expected lifespan of stairlift batteries are three (3) years. The batteries should be tested at every annual maintenance and replacing the batteries is recommended prior to the third year to reduce any risk of a low-voltage or dead/flat battery.
If the stairlift makes a beeping noise and/or the diagnostic display shows a "2" when the unit is not in use, the stairlift is not charging. Check that the power supply for the stairlift is switched on. If it is switched on and beeping continues contact an authorized dealer.
The stairlift features a continuous charge rail meaning it will charge along any part of the rail. Continuous charge allows the stairlift maintain optimum charge, expected lifespan and eliminates the requirement of parking the chair at a top/bottom charge point.
The Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift does not require a dedicated outlet or power supply, power can be supplied via an existing standard 120V wall socket located not more than 29½ ft. from top or bottom of the staircase.
The power consumption of the battery charger is less than 50 Watt, meaning the annual running cost of a stairlift is similar to a common light bulb.
The Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift comes standard with two (2) wireless handheld remote controls and holsters. A remote control has two buttons to remotely operate the stairlift.
GREEN Button causes the stairlift to ascend ↑
RED Button causes the stairlift to descend ↓
The remote control is a wireless infrared control so it will need to be pointed at the stairlift during use. Both remote controls are linked and programmed to the stairlift so they will not operate any other equipment.
The remote controls use 9V battery.
The stairlift rail, or track, is made from extruded high-quality aluminum, standard in a natural self-color. The durable track is easily marinated and can be cleaned with a damp cloth.
The rail is fitted directly to the stair treads. The slim design makes the Simplicity track one of the most compact in the industry, measuring just 6½" from wall to inner rail.
Staircase Angle | Bottom Rail Extension | Top Rail Extension |
27° | 15.08 | 9.17 |
30° | 14.72 | 8.54 |
35° | 14.09 | 8.07 |
40° | 13.50 | 7.56 |
45° | 12.87 | 6.97 |
50° | 12.28 | 6.34 |
The Simplicity 950 stairlift Hinge Track can be fitted as an affordable upgrade if a standard track is an obstruction for a bottom door or walkway. This means that the track can be folded away manually from the doorway giving clear access. The hinge is gas strut assisted, designed to make the manual operation as easy as possible.
The length of the manual hinge is a standard 13 ¾".
The zero intrusion option for the Simplicity 950 stairlift is a configuration with no rail overrun at the top of the stairs. The zero intrusion is achieved by fitting higher brackets, of foot extensions, that lifts the track slightly and a new central front chassis which bring the footrest back towards the top nose.
The zero intrusion optional configuration cannot be used in combination with a manual hinge.
The Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift is manufactured from a variety of materials that are easy "wipe-clean" surfaces. The seat, chair and carriage covers can be wiped clean with a damp cloth and small quantity of washing liquid or mild detergent.
DO NOT use abrasive cleaner, bleach or solvent based cleaners, as these can damage the seat.
The rail/track can be cleaned with a damp cloth. To clean the track, send the stairlift to the top of the stairs. Once most of the track is clean, send the stairlift to the bottom of the stairs and finish cleaning the track making sure that no debris falls down or onto the chair.
To maintain the stairlift in good mechanical order, ASMEA18.1 recommends that annual services are carried out by a qualified service technician or engineer.
The service history log must be filled regularly as a proof of specified maintenance. Failure to do so may invalidate the product warranty.
Handicare warrants the original purchaser of the Simplicity 950 that the stairlift is free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of two (2) years form the date of purchase.
In addition, Handicare warrants the original purchaser that the motor and gearbox will be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the product.
See more information on Handicare Stairlift Warranty
The Handicare Simplicity 950 stairlift is the best value for someone seeking an affordable stairlift with no "bells and whistles" to simply get them up/down the stairs. The Simplicity 950 is in entry-level, or economy, stairlift category but it should not be mistaken for low quality—the Simplicity 950 is among the most reliable stairlifts we have tested and on the market today.
The price of the stairlift varies depending on a couple of factors such as options, rail type, track length and scope of installation. The cost for a Handicare Simplicity 950 will typically range between $2600 to $3600.
]]>
See this custom Handicare FreeCurve stairlift we installed for a customer in Palatka, FL (Putnam County). Our client's bedrooms are located upstairs and the staircase had become too difficult to manage. We were contacted to help make the home safe and accessible. Quickly we were able to come to the home for a consultation and complete a professional PhotoSurvey measurement.
The PhotoSurvey (PS3D) drawings allow us to revise the build and configuration of the stairlift before going into manufacturing and guarantee a proper fit.
The base configuration of the stairlift project is a right-hand, internal large radius bend with a 90° finish at the top and 180° finish at the bottom which neatly tucks the unit in a convenient and safe park position.
The curved stairlift rail beautifully matches the railing and perfectly follows the contour of this staircase. The custom rail color is brown (RAL8024).
In addition, the stairlift is outfitted with the Elegance seat in cream white. The neutral cream white chair blends in well with the home's decor.
]]>
Many adult children miss the subtle hints that mom and dad might need help at home. Parents tend to hide their difficulties from their children because they want to live independently. Children don’t like to think about their parents getting old. It often takes a major health event like cancer, a heart attack, or a stroke before the parents and children recognize that professional help is needed at home.
You cannot always tell there is a problem just from telephone conversations or email correspondence. If you’re home for the holidays, this is an excellent time to “check in” with them to see how they are handling tasks around the house.
Here are some of the signs your parents might need help:
If your parents have always Caring for your parent handled money well, but suddenly get behind on their electric bill, figure out why this is happening. Seniors often incur higher medical bills than the average person, so they could be having trouble meeting their financial obligations. Do not be afraid to ask specific questions about their finances even if you feel it is not any of your business. By asking these questions, you should be able to tell if they are really having trouble meeting their financial obligations or if there are other mental challenges they are facing.
Pay attention to how often your parents cook dinner. If they used to cook big nutritious meals, but now eat microwave dinners, it could be an indication they don’t have the stamina to cook a large meal anymore. Casually open the refrigerator and the cabinets to see what your mom and dad are buying at the grocery store. Talk about cooking with your parents, and see how they respond. This is a great way to see how they are doing without asking direct questions about their eating habits.
You might not be with your parents when they’re driving, but you will notice if there is damage on any of their vehicles. If any of their cars are dented, see if your mom or dad can tell you how and when the accident occurred. Pay attention to clues they may not be as alert behind the wheel. If they won’t drive at night anymore, it could be a sign their vision is failing. Your parents might not tell you they have been in three accidents in a year, but they might tell you how their car insurance rates keep going up if you talk about your own auto insurance policy.
When visiting the home, see if the floors and carpets are clean. Are there stains on the carpet from the pets? Have the floors been mopped recently? If they have limited mobility, they will have a hard time keeping the floors clean. Vacuuming becomes a huge hassle if you are tired all of the time. Another subtle clue that mobility is becoming an issue is when they want to hire a cleaning service to help with basic chores around the home.
Senior citizens want their loved ones to believe they can manage well on their own. They may not tell you about falling in the bathtub or on the stairs. If you notice any unusual scratches or bruises, ask your parents about it. Bruises could be a sign of increasing trouble with balance or mobility. If they don’t want to walk long distances anymore, this could be another sign of balance issues.
You need to be proactive in monitoring the health of your parents as they reach their senior years. If a parent begins to show the early signs of dementia, they may not be mentally capable of living independently in the home. Do not assume that moving your parents into an assisted living facility is your only option. Home services may involve physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, nurses, and social workers. There are also Meals on Wheels programs and adult day care. Many modifications can also be made to an existing home to help assist seniors with mobility issues. Once you understand your parent’s physical, emotional, and mental limitations, you can make an informed decision on the best course of action to address their needs.
If you’d like to learn more or need help making home safe for you parents, feel free to reach out to us on our Contact Us page.
]]>Battery care and maintenance is very important. As a rule, a lead-acid battery should be charged after each usage but there is more to it. Here are some helpful tips to understand and extend your device's battery life.
]]>Battery care and maintenance is very important. As a rule, a lead-acid battery should be charged after each usage but there is more to it. Here are some helpful tips to understand and extend your device's battery life.
For new devices, it is recommended the batteries are charged for twelve (12) hours prior to initial use to condition the batteries for maximum performance. This is particularly important for scooters and wheelchairs even if the battery gauge shows a full charge.
The amount of charge time required can be influenced by several factors:
The American National Standards Institute/Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (ANSI/RESNA) standard states that 80% of capacity of charge should be achieved with eight (8) hours. Smaller current output chargers may make it necessary to charge for a longer period than other industry-standard equipment.
In general, it takes about 60% of the total charging time to bring a battery from 0% to 90%. However, the remaining 40% of the charging time is needed to complete the remaining 10% charge back into the battery.
Think of a battery as your fuel tank. The more fuel in the tank the more miles/kilometers you can travel. Similarly, more battery charge yields more distance. It is recommended that users recharge nightly for a minimum of eight (8) hours to ensure a full charge.
To further enhance battery life, it is recommended that a twelve (12) hour charge is performed at least twice a month. Consistently undercharging a set of batteries can cause sulfation, a build-up of lead sulfate crystals which is the number one cause of early failures of lead-acid, thereby experiencing longer charge times, shortening runtime and reducing battery life.
Always use the products' automatic charger for all standard routine charging. If storing batteries, be sure they are stored fully charged and disconnected. Avoid extreme hot and cold temperatures when storing, and periodically check the voltage and recharge as needed.
Need Batteries?There is a lot more to purchasing batteries than just price. Get professional advice from VIVA Mobility for battery service and replacement for your stairlift, scooter, wheelchair or patient lift. We offer white glove battery installation in Orlando and all of Central Florida. Call Us Today! Toll-free 1-800-710-3092 or (407) 308-2116 Not in Florida? Give us a call at 1-800-710-3092 for information and a quote. |
References:
The FST-300 is a floor based free standing system used to lift and transfer individuals from a bed, chair or similar fixture. It needs basic level of expertise to setup; easy to assemble and can be completed by just one person. No tools required. The quick setup (less than 5 minutes) and lightweight assembly allows the caregiver to transport and transfer the client with minimum effort.
]]>
SPH is a term referring to a system of policies and programs that enable healthcare workers to move patients in a way that does not cause injury or strain.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends that manual lifting of patients is minimized in all cases and eliminated when feasible and that employers should put an effective ergonomics process in place that provides management, involves employees, identifies problems, implements solutions, addresses injury reports, provides training and evaluates ergonomic efforts.
Minimal Lift programs recognize that there are appropriate and required times, during healthcare delivery, to manually lift, transfer and reposition clients.
Zero-Lift programs suggest that there are never appropriate times, during healthcare delivery, that manual lifting, transferring and repositioning of clients is appropriate or required
A lift is performed when all of the weight of an individual is moved from one surface to the next.
The act of moving, lifting, transferring or repositioning a patient using a caregiver’s body strength, without the use of lift/ handling aids or devices which reduce forces on worker’s musculoskeletal structure.
The act of moving, lifting, transferring or repositioning with the help of a specialized lift or handling equipment such as portable floor lifts, fixed ceiling lifts, slings, and mechanized lateral transfer aids.
A transfer is performed when only partial weight, due to the client’s ability to help or the use of a mechanical lift, is moved from one surface to another.
A reposition is performed when the weight is moved to a new location on the same surface, often on a timed schedule (turning every 2 hours- turn q2) to prevent pressure ulcers.
The equipment used to assist with the moving, lifting, transferring or repositioning of patients using slide sheets, gait belts with handles, tube sliders, and various surface friction-reducing devices.
Tasks that cause a high risk of musculoskeletal injury to the caregiver and pose a risk to the patient. Risks might include the patient falling or being dropped, acquiring a skin tear or bruise, or other pain from being manually touched. Examples of such tasks include, but are not limited to: transferring, repositioning, rolling/turning, bathing the patient, changing/cleaning the patient and bed, and tasks with a long duration.
Inpatient hospital wards with a high proportion of dependent patients, requiring full assistance with patient handling tasks and activities of daily living and who are frequently moved in and out of bed.
Analysis of facility injury data and the use of a tool for prioritization of high-risk tasks may assist in the designation of high-risk areas. These units have the highest incidence and severity of injuries due to patient handling tasks and are priorities for patient handling equipment interventions.
Describes the collective attitude of employees taking shared responsibility for safety in a work environment and by doing so, providing a safe environment of care for themselves as well as for patients.
Identified in some state SPH regulation that allows caregivers to refuse to participate in manually moving a patient if they are concerned for their own or the patient’s safety.
Provide assistance in moving patients horizontally from one surface to another (e.g. transfers from bed to stretcher).
FRDs are comprised of materials with a special coating that gives it a very slippery surface. Using these pieces of material (which can be as small as a chair seat or as large as a bedsheet), a caregiver can easily insert a sling behind and under a dependent patient, or slide one on top of the other to easily move a patient horizontally. The FRDs come in many different configurations, and some are available with handles, others in sheet format, others in tube format.
An organized program to reduce the number and severity of patient falls by addressing the modifiable risk factors unique to that patient. Fall prevention programs often include the use of lifts to assist in potentially risky patient transfers.
Staff members from clinical units/areas where patient handling occurs, including nursing, therapy, radiology, the morgue, and other diagnostic, treatment and procedure areas. They act as the SPH champion and resource person for their unit performing auditing tasks as well as lift training and practice with fellow staff members. Ideally, the goal for each unit is at least 3 UPLs.
Nursing or therapy staff assigned to manage the SPH program at a facility. Although, the goal is to have experienced SPH staff assigned to this role, often, there is no staff at the facility or in the area with this experience. They are responsible for implementing and maintaining the facility SPH program and providing leadership for the UPLs.
C. diff has long been a common, usually benign bug associated with simple, easily treated diarrhea in older people in nursing homes and hospitals. About 3 percent of healthy adults harbor the bacteria with no problem. But, overuse of antibiotics has allowed the germ to develop resistance in recent years, creating the toxic new type that resists the traditional treatment. When the patient has diarrhea, the nursing staff are trained to think “C. diff”. This is a highly contagious disease that requires contact isolation. In relation to SPH equipment, C. diff has been found harbored in the stainless steel “rollers” of the famous OR roller board that has been used for decades for lateral transfer.
A contagion that has become difficult to treat, as it can reside in a person without symptoms. It can be passed from person to person, but, also, can reside on surfaces in the environment. One method of gaining control is to wash laundry with high-temperature water and bleach-based detergent (which is detrimental to slings).
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). In the US, the research institution that provides scientific data upon which the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) makes recommendations for workplace safety.
The abdominal mass or skin mass on the bariatric patient. Often called an “apron of fat”, the caregivers must lift this mass in order to access the perineum or abdominal area for tasks such as hygiene care, skin, and wound assessment, or catheter insertion. Skin in this area is often in poor condition and can easily tear.
Safety measures used post hip replacement surgery, which requires the patient to maintain hip abduction, avoid internal rotation and avoid hip flexion greater than 90 degrees.
Post CVA, the efforts to retrain patients how to ambulate again, retraining their responses and strengthening the muscles. The process usually begins by standing at the side of the bed, progressing to getting up out of a chair.
A ratio of a patient’s weight relative to their height. Used to classify patients as normal weight or bariatric weight.
The BMI is calculated by dividing a patients weight (kg) by their height squared (m2 )
BMI = patient weight (kg) / height squared (m2 ) – or log onto:
http://www.webmd.com/diet/calc-bmi-plus
Internationally, bariatrics is defined as a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30. This classification system is internationally accepted:
Underweight = BMI < 18.5
Normal = BMI 18.5 – 24.9
Overweight = BMI 25 – 29.9
Obese 1 = BMI 30 – 34.9
Obese 2 = BMI 35 – 39.9
Obese 3 = BMI > 40
A bariatric patient may also be identified as anyone who has limitations due to physical size, health, and environmental access.
• Symptoms can vary similar to a stroke
• People with ABI’s can experience a significant range of disabilities
• Changes are typically classified as follows:
– Medical Difficulties
– Physical and Sensory Difficulties
– Thinking and Learning Difficulties (Cognition)
– Behavioral and Personality Changes (Psychological)
– Communication Difficulties
• Numbness and Weakness (often occurs on one side of the body or bottom half)
• Vision Impairment
• Tingling and Pain
• Tremors, Lack of Coordination
• Unsteady Gait
• Fatigue
• Muscle Atrophy
• Progressive Weakness
• Muscle Atrophy
• Spasticity
• Stiffness
• Speech Impairments
• Impaired breathing
Most cases progress quickly
– Intellect remains intact (difficulty communicating may suggest otherwise)
– often fatal within 2-5 years
– 50% die within 14 months
– Rough estimates: 1 in 5 will survive for 5 years
• Uncontrolled Movements
• Emotional Changes
• Mental Degeneration
• Personality Changes
• Balance Issues
• Decreased Coordination
• Speech Impairments
• Dementia
• Muscle Rigidity
• Seizures
• Infection
• Congenital Abnormalities
• Strokes
• Lack of Oxygen (during the L&D process)
• Severe Untreated Jaundice
• Improper brain development
• Congenital Abnormalities
• Infection:
– German Measles
– Chicken Pox
– Toxoplasmosis (parasite found in soil and in the feces of cats)
– Syphilis
• Lack of Coordination during voluntary movements
• Stiff muscles
• Spasticity
• Asymmetrical Gait
• Varied Muscle Tone (floppy to stiff)
• Difficulties with swallowing, sucking or speaking
• Fine motor control affected
- The damage to the brain is not progressive
- Therefore S+S usually do not change (worsen with age)
Range of motion or (ROM), is the distance (linear or angular) that a movable object may normally travel while properly attached to another object. It is also called a range of travel, particularly when talking about mechanical devices
The action of bending or the condition of being bent, esp. the bending of a limb or joint: "flexion of the fingers";
The movement of a limb towards the body.
The movement of a limb away from the body.
Biomechanics is the science of the internal and external forces acting on the human body and the effects produced by these forces.
The mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and the senses.
Any posture that is held for a prolonged period of time. A static posture may result in fatigue and even injury over time.
Also known as a decubitus ulcer, pressure ulcers are open wounds that form whenever prolonged pressure is applied to the skin covering bony outcrops of the body. Patients who are bedridden are at risk of developing pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers are commonly known as bedsores.
A feature of altered skeletal muscle performance in muscle tone involving hypertonia, which is also referred to as an unusual "tightness" of muscles.
A position usually associated with a client lying on their back.
A position usually associated with a client lying face down.
Movement of the sole towards the median plane or centerline of the body.
Movement of the sole of the foot away from the centerline of the body.
An increase in muscle tone leading to a resistance to passive movement throughout the range of motion
Also called hunchback or round back is a common condition of a curvature of the upper back
References:
It should be noted that for the decade of the nineties several medications were approved that would regulate or stimulate the immune system. Back then, a lot of the drugs turned out to be very toxic and the benefits to patients were limited. With time, more medications emerged, which although they increased the percentage of cure, were limited to treating only lymphomas (cancer that begins in the cells of the lymphatic system).
But, in the last twenty years of research, a greater understanding of the immune system has been achieved. What has allowed to develop more effective therapies to counteract different types of cancer. Last year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States, approved Pembrolizumab and Nivolumab, two new drugs focused on making it easier for our immune system identify cancer cells. Both drugs have revolutionized the way to treat cancers of lung, melanoma and kidney with metastasis. Currently, it is in the process that these therapies can also be applied in other types of cancer, as studies have shown their effectiveness.
Other types of cancer treatment that may benefit from this modern immunotherapy include: bladder cancer, colon cancer with metastasis, head and neck cancer with metastasis, ovarian cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma among others.
Modern immunotherapy has been very effective for many patients. Although it should be noted that, although some patients face mild side effects such as skin rash, cough, or diarrhea, there are others who may present a more dramatic side effect with severe symptoms such as: colon inflammation (colitis) and inflammation of the respiratory tract (pneumonitis).
In summary, we can say that thanks to the enthusiasm and dedication of thousands of scientists and voluntary patients, these new therapies represent an increasingly promising future in the fight against cancer. But we still have a lot to learn and discover in the field of oncology.
Source: Informes Medicos (2018); PanAmerican Medical Association of Central Florida [http://pamacfl.org/siguen-los-avances-en-la-oncologia-medical]
Written By: Dr. Carlos Alemañy
Board-certified Internal Medicine, Hematology and Oncology Physician
Cancer Institute of Florida (407) 303-2024
It is important to make the proper modifications in order to preserve your personal safety and also your independence. Adding a stairlift to your home staircase does just that, it will help you stay in the home you love and continue to easily move between one floor and another without any concern; with it, you and your loved ones will have the peace of mind knowing that you can move easily and without risking a fall.
]]>For space and/or cost, a conventional elevator is not always the solution you need to have access to the top floor of your house when the years limit your mobility. A stair lift chair can better fit your needs and provide you with the same functionality.
When, or preferably before, the golden years are reached it is essential to evaluate your home thinking about the years to come. Unfortunately, many houses were simply not built to meet the demands of those with mobility problems.
It is important to make the proper modifications in order to preserve your personal safety and also your independence. Adding a stairlift to your home staircase does just that, it will help you stay in the home you love and continue to easily move between one floor and another without any concern; with it, you and your loved ones will have the peace of mind knowing that you can move easily and without risking a fall.
Independence – One of the main reasons why people move into a retirement home is because they can no longer move around their house safely and take care of themselves.
If you are one of the millions of people who experience anxiety when going up or down stairs, you should know that a stair lift can help you enormously.
You can enjoy independence and the peace of mind that you with the push of a button you can transport yourself from one floor to another.
Even when you are or still feel young and vigorous, begin to analyze your options to add a stairlift in your home that allows you to occupy it when your mobility has decreased. Remember that it is better for you to plan with time.
Need a Stairlift?There is a lot more to purchasing a stairlift than just price. Get a professional home assessment and consultation from VIVA Mobility on the right stairlift for your home and need. We offer certified sales, service and installation in Orlando and all of Central Florida. Contact Us Today! Toll-free 1-800-710-3092 or (407) 308-2116 Not in Florida? Shop our online store for your DIY options |
It is scientifically proven that nutrition is not only highly related to chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension or cardiovascular but also influences to maintain a healthy brain optimal, prevent the decrease of memory and even prevent the progression of diseases such as Alzheimer's.
]]>When I ask my patients what they eat to maintain the health of their brain, they are surprised. And although it is true that it is not a subject of much talk, it is scientifically proven that nutrition is not only highly related to chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension or cardiovascular but also influences to maintain a healthy brain optimal, prevent the decrease of memory and even prevent the progression of diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative and multifactorial disorder that causes senile dementia and to which a cure has not yet been found. Patients with this condition lose the connection between neurons or brain cells, affecting their short-term memory capacity with some other complications.
It is estimated that more than 34 million people in the world suffer from it, a number that is increasing. The risks of acquiring it are increased by genetic factors or poor health habits, such as smoking or consuming alcohol, but they are also reduced by good nutrition.
It has been shown that Omega 3 and certain vitamins and essential amino acids are found in lower levels in people with Alzheimer's than in individuals suffering from this condition. The reason is that these nutrients help with the formation of molecules in the cell membrane of the brain and the regeneration of that communication between neurons.
To strengthen the memory, there are diets models rich in zinc, such as the Mediterranean, which is recommended for the prevention of chronic diseases, for containing fish, monosaturated vegetable oil, non-starchy vegetables, fruits and a diet with low glycemic and high level in antioxidants.
Eating consciously and responsibly helps maintain a healthy brain and keep remembering for a long time.
If you would like more information, contact Dr. Adamar González at (321) 310-6648, If you are located in Florida, schedule your appointment and learn how to transform your health through good nutrition.
Source: Informes Medicos; PanAmerican Medical Association of Central Florida [http://pamacfl.org/la-interconexion-entre-una-buena-nutricion-y-la-salud-del-cerebro]
Written By: Dr. Adamar Gonzalez.
Doctor in General Medicine; Certified Health and Nutrition Coach
Founder/Creator of the Health and Transformation Program
Health Revolutions MD. (321) 310-6648
Healthrevolutionsmd@gmail.com
Note, many of the sling models recommended for use in North America do not require a client to “sit” on the sling. Therefore, gluteal interface pressure is not of utmost importance. This area, however, represents a) the area of highest concern due to the frequency of pressure ulcers in this region and b) this area represents the site of highest potential interface pressure. In addition, there are new models and fabrics introduced, from the UK, that require the user to sit on the sling, and for the sling to remain in situ. Thus the importance of examining the gluteal interface pressure has, potentially, greater importance as these products are introduced into the North American marketplace.
Background
People who are in a seated position for long periods of time are, generally, at higher risk for developing a pressure ulcer. This is due, in part, to the fact that their weight is distributed over a smaller surface area with resulting greater higher interface pressure in the gluteal region.
At the same time, people with restricted mobility are often lifted, from one seat to another, through the use of a lift and sling. Current organizational guidelines advise that slings are removed from behind clients when they are sitting. However, due to culture, within a facility, many clients are left “sitting” on slings, for a variety of reasons.
With this obvious lack of compliance with organizational policy, this study attempted to review the potential risk of development of pressure sores, by examining the gluteal interface pressure between the client and different materials of slings. The hope was to identify sling materials, and perhaps sling models, that if left behind a client would represent the lowest possible increase in risk or, perhaps, a decrease in risk.
Method
Healthy individuals were asked to sit on three (3) different types of sling materials. A control group also sat in the same chair without the sling. The same chair was used for all clients.
The three (3) materials used included:
These three (3) sling fabric were chosen because they represent, in the UK, the most commonly used fabrics in the manufacturing of slings.
Summary
The findings of the study showed that sling fabric can increase surface area across the gluteal region, and therefore, affect pressure on the gluteal area and the ischial tuberosity in healthy volunteers.
Reduction in mean interface pressure, across the gluteal region, was noted using the spacer and polyester fabrics. This may be explained by the nature of the material to provide 2-way and/or multi-direction stretch properties. This may allow the load to be distributed over a larger surface area, thus decreasing interface pressure.
The result suggests that a lift sling provided the correct fit, model, and the material is used, can reduce the impact of pressure on the “standard” high-pressure areas/regions, with Spacer fabric shown to be the most effective. In fact, spacer fabric was shown to reduce pressure greater than when compared to the control group, sitting in a chair without a sling.
In addition, the spacer fabric was the preferred choice of all participants, described as being the most comfortable. This gives some support to the claim that spacer fabric offers substantially enhanced air and moisture permeability, and eliminates shear due to the structure of the fabric.
Conclusion
In contrast to the advice of many moving and handling experts, these findings suggest that sitting on a sling may not increase pressure ulcer risk, depending on the type of sling material.
More research and peer review are required but these findings may be helpful in assisting clinicians in decision making regarding the correct sling choice.
In addition, this may also mean that clients could safely sit on the sling, between uses and reduce the effort and indignity of additional moving and handling often required for sling application and removal.
As always a thorough client assessment, by a qualified health care professional will always be required, regardless of the supporting evidence.
]]>