Allied Health Assistant Learning Package

Equipment and Environment

Western Health |AHA Learning Package - Equipment and Environment 1

Equipment and Environment- Learning Package

Contents

Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 3

AHA Scope of Practice ......................................................................................................................... 3

Plan and Prepare ................................................................................................................................. 3

Equipment and Environment .............................................................................................................. 5

Conduct Therapy ................................................................................................................................. 6

Report and Document Information .................................................................................................... 8

Comply with OH&S Requirements ...................................................................................................... 9

Appendix A: Common Equipment used by AHAs in Therapy*.......................................................... 11

Occupational Therapy Equipment .................................................................................................... 11

Over-toilet frame .......................................................................................................................... 11

Raised toilet seat ........................................................................................................................... 12

Shower chairs and shower stools ................................................................................................. 12

Bedside commode ........................................................................................................................ 13

Wheeled (shower) commode ....................................................................................................... 14

Bath board .................................................................................................................................... 15

Transfer bench .............................................................................................................................. 15

Bed stick ........................................................................................................................................ 16

Chairs – adjustable height ............................................................................................................. 16

Portable ramps .............................................................................................................................. 17

Physiotherapy Equipment ................................................................................................................. 19

Walking sticks ................................................................................................................................ 19

Walking frames ............................................................................................................................. 19

Four-wheeled walker / A-frame .................................................................................................... 19

Pick-up frame (PUF) ...................................................................................................................... 20

Crutches ........................................................................................................................................ 21

Stationary bike .............................................................................................................................. 22

Arm ergometer ............................................................................................................................. 22

Steps/stairs and parallel bars (walking rails) ................................................................................ 23

Manual handling equipment............................................................................................................. 23

Slide board .................................................................................................................................... 23

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Hoists............................................................................................................................................. 23

Mobile hoist .................................................................................................................................. 23

Standing hoist ............................................................................................................................... 24

Slide sheets ................................................................................................................................... 24

Manual Wheelchairs ..................................................................................................................... 25

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Equipment and Environment Learning Package

Introduction A core task for Allied Health Assistants (AHAs) is to assist with the use of equipment as part of

people’s individual therapy, according to a care plan prescribed by an Allied Health Professional

(AHP).

This learning package has been developed to support AHAs knowledge and understanding of aids

and equipment commonly used within the health service.

AHA Scope of Practice An AHA’s scope of practice specifies the roles and responsibilities they are educated, authorised and

competent to perform. Key elements of this are:

Grading of the position

Position description

Duty statement

Qualifications

Level of experience

Competency

Formal competency assessment does not need to be completed for each item of equipment that an

AHA may use. It is assumed that the AHA’s supervisor will ensure they are adequately educated on

the use of all pieces of equipment prior to use with patients.

Plan and Prepare Expected skills and knowledge:

Describe why the equipment is required using information in the person’s health record,

handover documentation (where applicable) and information from the AHP

Describe the person’s current level of function and specific precautions using information in

the person’s health record, handover, documentation (where applicable) and information from

the AHP

Source equipment prescribed by AHP

Physically prepare a safe treatment environment for equipment use, including minimising and

removing hazards

Check the item to be provided is clean and complete a safety check

Describe why the equipment is required

It is important the AHA is clear about why the equipment is required for the person to ensure they are:

Able to explain to the client why the equipment is required

Know the most appropriate environment to demonstrate the use of the equipment (i.e.

kitchen, bathroom toilet, inside, outside etc.)

Give appropriate instructions and feedback to the person regarding the equipment’s use

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If the AHA does not understand why the equipment has been prescribed, they should ask the AHP to

explain it

Describe the person’s current level of function

The AHA needs to understand the person’s current level of function so they can:

Explain how the equipment can be used within the limits of the person’s functional ability

To ensure that the equipment is utilised by the person safely and in a safe environment

If the AHA is unsure about the person’s current level of function, they should check with their

supervising AHP.

Source equipment prescribed by AHP

The AHA needs to know where to find the equipment prescribed by the AHP. The majority of

equipment should be able to be sourced from hospital stores however there may be occasions where

specialised equipment needs to be obtained from other sources. The following Western Health

procedures provide guidance in relation to the provision of equipment:

Provision of Aids and Equipment for Effective Discharge of Patients. Procedure code: Allied

Health DP-CC2.5.1

Hire of Non-Standard Aids and Equipment for Effective Discharge of Patients. Procedure

code: Allied Health DP-CC2.5.4

If the AHA is unsure about where to source the equipment they should check with their supervising

AHP.

Physically prepare a safe treatment environment

Before beginning a therapy session, it is important to make sure the therapy area is suitable to

address the goals of the session.

Issues to consider specifically in relation to equipment include:

Is there enough space to use the equipment in the environment

Are there any environmental factors that may impact on the safety of using the equipment?

For example uneven surfaces, water on the ground and general clutter.

Check the item to be provided is clean and complete a safety check

All equipment needs to be clean and a safety check conducted before use.

Example

An AHA is preparing to introduce an over toilet frame (OTF) for an 86 year old woman, Mavis. The

purpose of the OTF is to assist Mavis in getting up and down off the toilet. The AHP has asked the

AHA to see Mavis today and help her to practice using the OTF in situ. The AHP has explained

she wants the AHA to reinforce correct hand placement on the OTF rather than using other things

in the bathroom i.e. Toilet roll holder, door handle or vanity to get on and off the toilet. The AHP

explains to the AHA how to do this and what she should do if Mavis has difficulty.

Example

An AHA is preparing to introduce an OTF to an 86 year old woman Mavis. The AHP tells the AHA

that Mavis also has decreased strength in her left side due to a stroke approximately 2 years ago.

As a result of Mavis’ left sided weakness, the AHP has requested that the AHA stands on Mavis’

left, to provide support if required, when practicing OTF transfers.

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Safety check of equipment includes but is not limited to:

Working brakes (four wheel frames)

Rubber tips on walking sticks or crutches

Rubber feet on equipment is intact i.e. Over toilet frame, shower stool

Adjustment pins fully extended through hole

Appropriate safe working limit (weight capacity) of equipment

Charged battery (scooter/power wheelchair)

Trial of safety and equipment function prior to use

Equipment and Environment Expected skills and knowledge:

Explain the intended purpose and use of the equipment

Obtain the person’s consent before using the equipment

Check the equipment meets requirements of AHP prescription

Report at least three factors that could indicate the need to cease or modify the treatment

Seek support from the AHP if difficulties arise during therapy

Explain the intended purpose and use of the equipment

Before the person starts using any equipment it’s important they understand how to use it. The AHA

needs to be able to explain how to use the equipment so the person

Is able to use the equipment correctly

Understand why the equipment may not be suitable to some tasks/activities

Understand how the equipment can be used within the limits of the person’s functional ability

Can safely utilise the equipment in their environment

Can fully comprehended how to use the equipment

Obtain the person’s consent before using the equipment

The AHA must ensure the person agrees to use the prescribed equipment prior to using it.

Check the equipment meets requirements of AHP prescription

It’s important the AHA checks the equipment meets the requirements of the AHP prescription to

ensure the safety of the person and to maximise the benefit of using the equipment. If the AHA is

unsure about whether the equipment meets the AHP prescription, they should check with the

prescribing AHP. To ensure the equipment meets the requirements of the AHP prescription, the AHA

could check the handover provided by the AHP and compare equipment sourced with the equipment

trialled by the person with the AHP.

Example

“Stephen the Physio asked me to come today so we can practice using this walking frame to help

you get around more easily. Stephen thinks that this piece of equipment will be the best option to

help you walk safely around the house. We will look at how you will be able to use it in the house

and when it may not be safe to use it.”

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Factors that could indicate the need to cease or modify the treatment

It is important to continually monitor the person and their environment during therapy activities.

Additional factors specific to the environment that may have an impact on therapy could include but

are not limited to:

Home modification/change that the AHP is unaware of

New people/animals living in the house

Equipment failure

Weather conditions

Uneven surfaces

Water on the floor

The AHA should seek advice from the AHP regarding actions to take in these situations.

Conduct Therapy

Expected skills and knowledge:

Introduce self, including name and role, and wear ID badge in a clearly visible place

Educate the person in the safe use, transportation and maintenance of the equipment

Demonstrate safe use of the equipment

Determine the person’s understanding of therapy

Supervise the person as they practice using the equipment

Report at least three factors that could indicate the need to cease or modify the treatment

Cease or modify treatment as appropriate

Seek support from AHP if difficulties arise during therapy

Verbally communicate at a level appropriate to the person’s level of language, cognition,

knowledge of their condition and cultural factors

Provide feedback, encouragement, physical guidance and support (as appropriate)

Report equipment faults

State correct ordering procedures for equipment items

Example 1.

The AHA is unclear whether the armchair she has for Mr C meets the AHP prescription. The AHA

contacts the AHP and asks her whether the armchair she has meets the prescription, prior to the

session with Mr C.

Example 2.

AHA goes to patient home post discharge, as per AHP handover, to deliver and install an over

toilet frame. However on arrival the AHA notices the plumbing is on the side of the toilet, not the

rear and therefore the over toilet frame doesn’t fit. The AHA contacts the AHP to seek further

advice.

Example

The AHA has arrived at the person’s house on a hot day to practice utilising a new walking aid.

There is no air conditioning in the house and the person appears fatigued.

The AHA contacts the AHP and reports the above situation recommending that the session not go

ahead today. The AHP agrees with this course of action.

This is documented in the patient file and the subsequent course of action is noted

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Describe process to maintain and monitor stock levels of equipment

Many of these items are described in more detail in other learning packages. Additional information

specific to equipment and environment is found below.

Educate the person in the safe use, transportation and maintenance of the equipment

People learn in different ways so it is important to consider educating the person in a range of

different ways. When providing education in the safe use, transportation and maintenance of

equipment, consider how this information could be delivered. Education may be provided verbally, via

demonstration (see “demonstrate safe use of equipment”) and in a written format - for example,

provision of brochures/information sheets. Giving prompts, cues, physical assistance and providing

feedback also form part of the educative process. Information regarding the recommended method of

educating a person regarding equipment should be obtained from the referring AHP.

Demonstrate safe use of the equipment

An important part of educating a person is demonstrating how to use the equipment safely. This may

include showing the person any safety checks and safety features prior to using the equipment.

The AHP will inform the AHA of any specific safety requirements when using the equipment. The

AHA should ensure that they understand these requirements so that they can explain and

demonstrate the safe use of the equipment to the person.

Features specific to commonly used equipment are described in Appendix A of this learning package.

Determine the person’s understanding of therapy

After explaining and demonstrating how to use the equipment, confirm the person understands the

information they have been given and check if they have any questions. The AHA may also wish to

check the person’s understanding at different points throughout the process of explaining how to use

the equipment and how it relates to their therapy.

Supervise the person as they practice using the equipment

The AHA needs to monitor the person as they practice using the equipment. They need to ensure

they give the person their full attention. This ensures:

The person is using the equipment correctly

The AHA is able to provide constructive feedback

The AHA is able to highlight any potential concerns

Factors that could indicate the need to cease or modify the treatment

Factors specific to the environment or equipment that may indicate therapy should be ceased include,

but are not limited to:

Equipment failure

Environmental hazards such as clutter or uneven surfaces

Seek support from AHP if difficulties arise during therapy

An AHA should always seek support from the AHP if difficulties arise in relation to activities

undertaken during therapy. This could include but is not limited to:

Example

“Do you understand how to use the shower stool? Do you have any questions?”

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Safety concerns

Health concerns

Challenging behaviour

Equipment issues

Falls/near misses

Report and Document Information Expected skills and knowledge:

Provide accurate, relevant and concise information at appropriate time to AHP regarding

equipment

Outline the costs and/or funding of the recommended equipment provision and any

responsibilities and conditions for participants

Record information from session in patient file in a timely manner in line with relevant policies

and procedures

Complete equipment provision documentation according to organisational procedure

Confirm that the person has relevant documentation and understands any further action that

needs to be taken

Provide accurate, relevant and concise information at appropriate time to AHP regarding equipment

It is important to give the AHP information regarding the person’s equipment and use of equipment as

soon as practical to do so. This will assist the AHP with planning for any further sessions and

consideration for prescribing any further equipment. The AHP needs to know:

How well the person adapted to using the equipment

Questions that arose about the use of the equipment and feedback given

Any concerns or further reinforcement that may be needed regarding the equipment

Outline the costs and/or funding of the recommended equipment provision and any responsibilities

and conditions for participants

Participants need to have an understanding of:

How the equipment will be funded

Whether there is any cost to participant for equipment

If there are any conditions or responsibilities for participant related to equipment

What options are available in regard to obtaining equipment that may be required for their

therapy

The AHP who has provided the equipment prescription should explain this information to the patient.

However, the AHA should also be aware of these factors so that they are able to reinforce the

information provided. Information could be provided verbally and/or in a written form.

Example

An AHA went to see Mrs B at home to provide her with an over toilet frame. The AHA reported to the

AHP that Mrs B was able to use the over toilet frame safely. The AHA reported Mrs B needed some

prompting and reinforcement to not pull herself up using the toilet roll holder but rather to push

herself up using the arms on the over toilet frame. Mrs B’s carer will monitor and remind Mrs B to do

this when toileting. The AHA also documents this in the patient file.

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Record information from session in patient file in a timely manner in line with relevant policies and

procedures

Clear documentation is important for legal purposes, professional accountability and safe and

effective patient management.

Complete equipment provision documentation according to organisational procedure

The following Allied Health procedures and guidelines need to be adhered to which includes the

documentation that needs to be completed in regard to equipment provision

Provision of Aids and Equipment for Effective Discharge of Patients (code: Allied Health DP-

CC2.5.1)

Hire of Non-Standard Aids and Equipment for Effective Discharge of Patients (code: Allied

Health DP-CC2.5.4)

Allied Health and Care Coordination Documentation Audit Procedure (code: Allied Health

DP-CC8.1.1)

Confirm that the person has relevant documentation and understands any further action that needs to

be taken

It’s important that the person has the relevant documentation relating to their equipment and any

further action that may need to be taken such as when the equipment hire expires, when the

equipment needs to be returned, when they required equipment will be available for collection, when

they will be billed for their equipment.

Comply with OH&S Requirements It is important that all staff comply with any organisational OH&S requirements. This includes but is

not limited to:

Completion of mandatory training (Fire and Emergency, Hand Hygiene, General Manual

handling, Basic Life Support, Prevention and Remediation of Occupational Violence, Back 4

Life, EMR)

Safety procedures for home visits (Occupational Health and Safety Procedures for Home Visit

Procedure code: OP-SE1.4.4)

Example

The AHP has prescribed a pick up frame for Mrs K. The AHP has advised Mrs K she is not eligible to

receive a funded frame and explains what the cost of hiring the frame. She also explains the conditions

associated with hiring the frame (length of time, condition of equipment on return) and where the

equipment can be hired from. The AHA meets with Mrs K and reinforces the information that the AHP

has given the patient.

Example

The AHA meets with Mr R after he has received his crutches. The AHA asks Mr R if he has the

following documentation:

Medwest/Equipment store equipment form

Education brochure (if applicable)

The AHA also asks Mr R if he knows when he needs to return his crutches and what options are

available to him if he needs the crutches for a longer period of time.

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Infection control procedures including the ‘Cleaning of Patient Care Equipment’ procedure

Procedure code: OP-PS2.3.7

Report unsafe work practices, hazards, near miss incidents and accidents

Example

The AHA is visiting a Mr D’s home to deliver and reinforce the use of a replacement shower chair.

The AHA checks the AHP’s handover and adjusts the chair to the required height checking the pins

are in situ. After assisting the Mr D to shower with the new chair the AHA notices the plastic seat of

the chair is cracked.

The AHA removes the shower chair, and agrees to provide another to Mrs D. On her return to the

hospital the AHA informs the AHP of the faulty piece of equipment and organises for the shower chair

to be repaired/disposed of.

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Appendix A: Common Equipment used by

AHAs in Therapy* * Western Health acknowledges the Department of Health and Human Services ‘Allied Health

Assistant Competency: Equipment and environment learning package’ as the source of the

information contained in this appendix. This resource can be accessed at:

https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/health-workforce/allied-health-workforce/victorian-assistant-workforce-

model/core-competencies

Occupational Therapy Equipment

Over-toilet frame

An over-toilet frame (OTF) is designed to fit over a toilet to increase the ease of toilet transfers. It has

bilateral armrests and the legs can be adjusted in height. An optional splash guard can be supplied to

prevent soiling on the floor.

Adjusting the height

The legs of the OTF are height adjustable via a push-button action. To adjust the height,

press the spring-loaded button on each leg and move to the correct height.

Adjust the height of the OTF so the person’s feet are resting flat on the ground. Their hips

should be higher than their knees or as directed by AHP.

Ensure the OTF legs are stable on the floor surface. OTFs often have one leg with additional

adjustable holes that can be interchanged to accommodate an uneven floor surface.

Ensure OTF fits over the toilet and that the toilet seat is in the up position when positioning

the OTF

Ensure the user pushes equally on the both arm rests when sitting or standing so as not to tip

the frame.

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

Ensure the OTF is clean and in good working order.

Check for cracks in the seat.

Check legs are easily adjustable and not rusted.

Ensure the height adjustment push button is fully extended through the desired hole before

putting weight on it.

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Raised toilet seat

Raised toilet seats (RTS) help to increase the height of the toilet seat, to assist people who struggle to

get on and off the toilet.

They are secured to the top of the toilet bowl and come in a variety of heights (usually 50 mm, 100mm

and 150 mm). Some are available with lids or armrests.

Installation

• Lift the existing toilet seat lid and seat, and position toilet seat raiser in direct contact with the

porcelain bowl.

• The seat is attached to the toilet using adjustable brackets.

• Adjust brackets to ensure firm contact with the sides of the porcelain bowl.

• Ensure the lip at front of raised toilet seat (if applicable) is firmly against the front of bowl.

• If the RTS cannot be fitted correctly, the existing toilet seat may need to be removed.

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Ensure the RTS is clean and in good working order

• Check for cracks in the seat

• Ensure rubber surface of adjustable brackets is in good working order

• Advise patient of need to regularly check firmness of adjustable brackets

• If the RTS cannot be fitted correctly, do not proceed with trial and provide feedback the prescribing

therapist.

Shower chairs and shower stools

A shower chair or stool is a device that is designed to allow a client to sit while showering or dressing.

A shower stool does not have a back rest and may be used instead of a shower chair due to space

and access limitations in a client’s shower recess.

Both devices have bilateral armrests and the legs can be adjusted in height.

Adjusting the height

• The four legs of the chair or stool are height adjustable via a push button action. To adjust the

height, press the spring-loaded button on each leg and move to the correct height.

• The height of the chair or stool should be adjusted so the person’s feet are resting flat on the

ground. Their hips should be higher than their knees or as directed by AHP.

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• Ensure all legs of the chair or stool are stable on the shower floor surface. Both devices often have

a leg with additional adjustable holes that can be interchanged to accommodate shower floor

gradients.

• Ensure the person pushes equally on the both arm rests when sitting or standing so as not to tip

the frame.

• Ensure the position of the chair enables any carers assisting with showering to reach and move

safely

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Ensure the chair or stool is clean and in good working order.

• Check for cracks in the seat.

• Check legs are easily adjustable and not rusted.

• Check all stoppers are intact.

• Ensure the height adjustment push button is fully extended through the desired hole before putting

weight on it.

• Ensure all items required for showing are within easy reach when seated

Bedside commode

A bedside commode is a portable toilet with a seat, cover and pan underneath. The pan can be

removed for cleaning after the commode is used.

A commode can be used beside the bed if a person is unable to access the toilet safely.

A commode may have swing back or removable armrests to accommodate slide transfers.

Adjusting the height

• The four legs of the commode chair are height adjustable via a push button action. To adjust the

height, press the spring-loaded buttons on each leg and move to the correct height.

• The height of the commode should be adjusted so the person’s feet are resting flat on the ground.

Their hips should be higher than their knees or as directed by AHP.

• Ensure all legs of the chair are stable on the floor surface.

• Ensure the user pushes equally on the both arm rests when sitting or standing so as not to tip the

frame.

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Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Ensure the commode is clean and in good working order.

• Check for rips, tears and cracks in the cushion, back-rest and lid.

• Check legs and adjustable armrests (if applicable) are easily adjustable and not rusted.

• Ensure the height-adjustment push button is fully extended through the desired hole before putting weight on it.

Wheeled (shower) commode

A wheeled shower commode can be used in a level-access shower or over a toilet.

They are available as attendant propelled (four small wheels) or self-propelled (two large wheels and

two small wheels). Attendant-propelled commodes require a carer for all aspects of mobility.

Key features

• Seat options – open/ closed front, left or right side opening

• Brakes – on castors or large self-propelled wheels

• Footplates – swing away versus slide out

• Armrests – swing back

• Commode pan (with lid) slides in from the rear (if required for use)

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Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Check metal components regularly for any signs of rust.

• Castors should be checked regularly to ensure smooth ride for occupant.

• Ensure brakes are applied whenever the commode is stationary

Bath board

Bath boards are for people who have difficulty getting in and out of the bath. They are fitted across the

top of the bath and allow the person to sit over the bath without needing to step into the bath.

Due to the number of variables that can impact on the safe installation of a bath board, bath

boards will only be fitted / installed by an Occupational Therapist

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Check surface of the bath board is clean and in good working order.

• Ensure the rubber surface of adjustable brackets is in good working order.

• Advise the person to regularly check the adjustable bracket is firmly in contact with the supporting

surface.

Transfer bench

Bath transfer benches may assist people who have difficulty stepping in and out of the bath or shower

safely. The bench is positioned over the bath edge or shower lip, with two legs inside the bath and

two legs outside. It allows the user to shuffle across into the bath. Some backrests can be removed

for use in confined spaces.

Installation

• Push and hold the push button while sliding the extension leg up or down to the desired set of

holes. Make sure the push button is fully extended through the desired hole before putting weight

on the item.

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• Ensure the bench surface is level and all four legs are adjusted to have full contact with supporting

surfaces.

• Ensure the legs with suction cups (if applicable) are placed against the inside bath surface.

• Ensure the handle is positioned closest to the wall of the bath or shower.

• Reposition the backrest and handle to suit the orientation of the bath or shower.

• The height of the transfer bench should be adjusted so the person’s feet are flat on the ground.

Their hips should be higher than their knees or as directed by AHP.

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Position as much of the transfer bench as possible over the bath to decrease water spillage. The

position also need to take access to, and circulation around the bathroom into account.

• Check for rips, tears and cracks in the bench and back rest.

• Check legs and adjustable armrests (if applicable) are easily adjustable and not rusted.

• Ensure the height adjustment push button is fully extended through the desired hole before putting

weight on it.

• If suction cups are present on legs, use removal tabs to release suction.

Bed stick

A bed stick is anchored beneath a mattress to provide support while completing transfers,

repositioning and/or rolling in bed.

Warning: due to the high level of risk associated with incorrect bed stick use, practical

demonstration by an AHP is necessary. You should also check your organisation’s policies

and procedures when determining the suitability of the client, equipment and fitting.

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Ensure the bed stick is clean and in good working order.

• Check the end caps are in situ to prevent damage to the mattress.

• Ensure that the bed stick is firmly held in place by the weight of the mattress and the person’s

body weight when seated on the edge of the bed.

• Ensure there is no gap between the mattress and bed stick.

• Refer to your organisation’s policies and procedures (if applicable).

Chairs – adjustable height

Orthopaedic chairs are designed for people with reduced strength and mobility. These chairs are

height adjustable and have bilateral armrests to assist with independent and safe transfers.

The back of many high-backrest chairs can be removed from the seat base to enable easier and safer

transportation.

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Hi-Lite chair Utility chair

Adjusting the height

• The four legs of the chair are height adjustable via a push button action. To adjust to the correct

height, press the spring-loaded buttons on the legs and move to the required height.

• The height of the chair should be adjusted so the person’s feet are resting flat on the ground. Their

hips should be higher than their knees or as directed by AHP.

• Ensure all legs of the chair are stable on the floor surface.

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Ensure the chair is clean and in good working order.

• Check for cracks in the vinyl.

• Check the legs are easily adjustable and not rusted.

• If the high-back chair has been disassembled, ensure the back rest is fitted securely and evenly to

the seat base.

• Ensure the height adjustment push button is fully extended through the desired hole before putting

weight on it.

• Ensure chosen position does not limit safe access and circulation to the rest of the room.

Portable ramps

Portable ramps are designed to assist an occupant in a wheelchair or scooter to transition over curbs,

thresholds and other obstacles. They are available in different fixed lengths.

Many different models of portables ramps exist. Practical training is essential before using the

equipment. Be aware that steep ramp gradients may pose safety risks.

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Installation

• The bottom of the ramp must be set firmly on the ground and the top of the ramp must be set flush

with the step or vertical lip.

• The ramp has a rubber slip-resistant strip on the underside of the upper lip to assist with stabilising

the ramp on a step.

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• A pinch point may exist in the ramp hinge. Keep fingers away from the hinge while folding or

unfolding the ramp.

• Use manual handling precautions when handling portable ramps.

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Physiotherapy Equipment

Walking sticks

A walking stick is a device used to facilitate balancing and walking.

Adjusting the height

• Some walking sticks are height adjustable via a push button action. To adjust to the correct height

press the spring-loaded buttons on the stick and move to the required height.

• With shoes on, the person’s arm should be relaxed and hanging loosely at their side.

• The hand grip should be level with the wrist joint.

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Ensure the walking stick is clean and in good working order.

• Check the push buttons are easily adjustable and not rusted.

• Check stoppers are intact.

• Ensure the height-adjustment push button is fully extended through the desired hole before putting

weight on it.

Walking frames

A walking frame is a device used by people who need additional support to maintain balance while

walking. The client walks with the frame surrounding their front and sides, with their hands providing

additional support by holding on to the top of the frame.

Four-wheeled walker / A-frame

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Adjusting the height

• Twist and remove the toggles and bolt located on the frame of the walker below the handgrips.

Adjust to the required height and replace the toggle and bolt.

• When adjusting the height of a walking frame for someone, ensure they are wearing everyday

shoes and are standing in a relaxed position with their hands resting comfortably beside their

body.

• In this position, the walking frame handgrips should sit approximately at wrist-joint height.

Pick-up frame (PUF)

Some models may have two wheels at the front or skis at the back in place of the rubber stoppers.

Adjusting the height

• These types of walking frames are height adjustable via a push button. To adjust to the correct

height, press the spring-loaded buttons on the legs of the walker and move to the required height.

• When adjusting the height of a walking frame for someone, ensure they are wearing everyday

shoes and are standing in a relaxed position with their hands resting comfortably beside their

body.

• In this position, the walking frame handgrips should sit approximately at wrist-joint height.

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Crutches

A – Axillary crutch

B – Forearm crutch

C – Gutter crutch

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Ensure the walking frame is clean and in good working order.

• When relevant, check rubber tips and brake cables for signs of wear and rust.

• Ensure all handle height-adjustment fastenings are secured tightly.

• Ensure the height-adjustment push button is fully extended through the desired hole before putting

weight on it.

• Where available, brakes must be applied whenever the device is stationary

Exercise Equipment The main use for the following items of equipment are for cardiorespiratory exercise. Each model has

different specifics and hands-on training in the workplace is essential. Individual adjustments may be

required for each item. See the delegating clinician for details.

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Stationary bike

Key features

• safe mounting/ dismounting

• safe braking

• resistance control

• seat-height adjustment may be required.

Arm ergometer

Arm ergometers work like a bicycle for the arms.

Some are designed to sit on a table, others are designed for wheelchair access.

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Steps/stairs and parallel bars (walking rails)

These are used as part of retraining a person’s walking abilities. The activities done using these items

of equipment will be specific to the individual, and will be carefully prescribed by the clinician.

Manual handling equipment

Warning: before using any manual handling products, complete training in the correct use of

specific equipment. This document provides only a basic overview of equipment.

Slide board

A slide board is designed to assist a seated user to transfer from one surface to another. It can be

curved or straight, and may include an optional handle cut out.

Hoists

Hoists are designed to provide assistance with moving a person with reduced mobility from one place

to another, without manually lifting them. Different types of hoists are used depending on the person’s

abilities and the skills of the carer.

Mobile hoist

A mobile battery-operated hoist that may be used to lift and transfer a person from a seated or lying

position, or on and off the floor.

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Key features to be aware of:

• sling selection and fitting

• yoke versus pivot frame for sling attachment

• hand held control – for lift and lower function

• appropriate use of brakes

• appropriate use of spreader bar

• communication with the user when using equipment

• mechanical emergency lowering device.

Standing hoist

This hoist is designed to assist with the transfer of a person from one seated position to another

seated position. The person needs to be able to bear weight with their legs and arms.

Slide sheets

A slide sheet is a slippery piece of material, designed to reduce friction and make it easier to move

people in bed or on a chair.

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Manual Wheelchairs

Cleaning, maintenance and safety

• Clean the wheelchair’s upholstery and frame with a damp cloth.

• If the wheelchair gets wet or has something spilt on it, wipe it immediately to avoid rust on metal

parts.

• Check tyres regularly. To do this, press the tyre with your thumb. If you can depress the tyre, pump

up the tyre to the pressure indicated.

• Check the brakes regularly. To do this:

– lock both brakes and then face empty wheelchair

– grasp the armrests and attempt to push the empty chair backwards

– if the wheels move (rather than sliding on the ground), you need to adjust the brakes.

Part Cleaning and maintenance

Frame Clean as needed (remove dirt, food, mud etc.)

Lubricate moving parts (folding mechanism, cross brace, bottom rail tube)

Tighten nuts, check rivets and welds

Upholstery Clean as with damp soapy cloth

Check tension, upholstery and screws

Inspect for tears and rips

Arm rest Lubricate mechanism (WD 40)

Leg rest Lubricate mechanism (WD 40)

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Foot plates Check action and engagement of mechanism

Brakes Check action for safety, adjust as required

Push rims Ensure clean and burr free

Tyres/tubes Check pressure weekly and inflate if needed

Check for wear; replace tyre/tube as necessary