Ashford and St Peter's NHS Foundation Trust has adopted a minimal handling approach when assisting patients with their mobility needs; ensuring safety for both patients and our staff.
This is in line with the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) and the Manual Handling Operations Regulations (1992) (amended 2007).
During your relative/friends stay with us in hospital, patients will be encouraged to move themselves and maintain independence wherever possible.
An assessment of their mobility needs will be carried out on admission and documented as part of their care plan. This plan will be reviewed and updated as necessary.
Patients who do require assistance with their mobility needs will be given the necessary guidance and /or mobility aids. These will include, slide sheets, hoists, standing hoists, walking frames for example. Aids such as these will improve safety and comfort, and will in turn help towards patients regaining independence and recovery where appropriate.
Our Trust has a responsibility to look after our staff. One in four nurses for example in the UK has taken time off with back pain, strain or injury sustained at work, for a few, this has meant the end of their nursing career. (RCN 2005)
If your relative/friend uses mobility/walking aids at home please inform the staff, who may advise bringing it in where appropriate. If a patient is attending an outpatient appointment, please inform the department re any mobility issues in order for the staff to plan ahead for you.
Further Information
If you have any concerns or queries, please contact the Moving and Handling Team on 01932 872000 ext. 3664.
You can download this guide in PDF format.
