Allow the patient independence
From the beginning, as you start caring for an immobile or partially immobile person, you should, as a caregiver, develop the habit of assisting only as much as is absolutely necessary. If the person with a disability can do certain things on their own, they should do so. If they can assist in transferring to a wheelchair, let them support themselves with their hands or feet. If they can still feed themselves, do not feed them. This approach has a positive impact on their rehabilitation. If you do everything for the sick person from the start, they will quickly get used to it and lose the will to do things they can still manage on their own. Patients in wheelchairs should, depending on the type and severity of their disability, perform as many activities independently as possible.
Respect the patient and yourself
When providing care for an immobile client, it is important to inform them of what you are going to do with each activity. If they are mentally sound, wait for their consent before proceeding with the task. For example, when you are going to transfer, reposition, wash, or dress the patient, first: you must tell them what will happen, second: you must have their consent, and third: require the patient's cooperation during the activity. Caring for a disabled person is a demanding task. It is not enough to be determined, patient, and caring. As a caregiver for a person with disabilities, you will experience many difficult emotions. Therefore, do not forget about regular rest and relaxation. Caregiving for an immobile client is not only physically but also mentally demanding.
Transfer of an immobile patient - basic rules
The safety of the caregiver during client transfers is as important as the safety of the patient. Therefore, mobility activities performed with the patient must be executed correctly to avoid damaging your spine and to prevent accidents or dropping the patient. When lifting, you must always have bent knees and a completely straight back to avoid overloading your spine. It is also important to have a wide stance, which helps distribute the lifted weight evenly. During transfers, you cannot make any sudden movements that might result in spinal injury, muscle strain, or tendon strain. The distance between the caregiver and their charge is also crucial. The smaller it is, the easier it is to carry or lift the patient. When relocating the patient, ensure that the distance to be covered is as short as possible.
Equipment for the transfer of disabled individuals - necessary aids
Specialized equipment for patient transfer is available on the market. One such device is a hydraulic lift or ceiling lift, which allows for the efficient transfer of individuals from one place to another or to easily change body positions. An adjustable bed should be a standard feature. You can also transfer a patient using a transfer belt or sheet. Such aids significantly simplify the work of the caregiver, but clients cannot always afford them. Therefore, when transferring, pay attention to your back and adhere to the techniques you learned in the caregiving course.