SINGLE HANDED CARE, A PROVEN APPROACH
What does this concept mean? Single handed care is in reference to a patient being hoisted (moved and handled) by one person skilled and trained to do so.
All too often we hear providers stating “our policy insists on having 2 carers to move and handle at all times”. This is an unlawful and unacceptable statement, it is a blanket statement made by providers who do not understand the legislation. The misconceptions continue regarding moving and handling as there continues to be insufficient knowledge of specialist equipment with outdated and inflexible approaches which has led to too much generalisation regarding the perceived need for two carers as opposed to one.
Our OTs have accurate knowledge of the legislation around moving and handling as well as the environment, the patient and their associated needs. Following robust assessment of all factors our OTs will be able to use positive risk assessment in conjunction with the mental capacity Act to determine if a patient requires a single carer or double.
If a single carer for moving and handling is identified as a possibility our OTs will recommend specialist equipment to enable this to be achieved in the safest manner possible.
All equipment is assessed for, trialled and then prescribed; once equipment is ordered and delivered our OTs will fit equipment and ensure the care plans are fit for purpose including appropriate risk assessments and manual handling plans. This will also include demonstration and training if necessary for those using the prescribed equipment.
It is not as simple as ordering equipment; all factors must have been assessed and considered as each case is individual.
There are a multitude of differing equipment dependent upon the OT assessment outcomes. Comprehensive specialist assessment will identify this.
A single-handed care package offers cost efficiency, least restrictive to the patient, improved privacy and dignity for the patient and improved communication and engagement for the patient, which enhances overall well-being.
In the current economic climate with the ongoing cost of health and social care provision, commissioners of all services will need to look at any opportunity to ensure services are as cost-effective as is possible.
Our expert OTs are all advanced and approved moving and handling train the trainers.
No two cases will be the same – Please see our case studies section for further information of how this can benefit.
