The Canadian hospitals are looking for new ways to improve efficiencies, patient safety and ergonomics.
The medical recliner is coming to the fore-front as the broad spectrum of uses are discovered.
FAST TRACK PATIENTS
The typical exam or procedure room usually has a bed or stretcher where the patient will be examined. When the patient is ushered into the room, they either sit in a side chair until the doctor arrives or they promptly lay down on the stretcher and go to sleep. Wait times are impacted by the ability to turn around the room for the new patient so new measures are being used to make improvements.
Recliners are being introduced to fast tracking areas of emergencies departments, clinics and other out patient areas, in place of stretchers (where suitable) and they are finding that the patients stays are shorter, more comfortable and there is less physical patient handling than compared to the stretcher. Obviously the stretcher cannot be completely replaced by recliners but a mixture has helped improve many departments in the hospital.
INFUSION THERAPY AND PACU
Recliners have been used for decades in dialysis and oncology treatments. A good medical recliner will assist the staff in less patient handling and better care during the procedure.
The more progressive Pre-op clinics and PACU's have adapted this thought process and added recliners into their department. The change from laying out on a stretcher to a comfortable recliner comes with a patient mindset that leaves them less likely to loiter. Again, the recliner does not replace the stretcher but is very useful when added to the department.
BARIATRIC STAY
New technology has combined the recliner with a wheelchair and stretcher. The Bariatric population is very challenging as they come for a hospital stay. The new Stretchair combines a high capacity recliner that has powered lift and goes into a flat position for procedures. In addition, it is a great transport option! With the increase in average BMI, this is something every hospital should consider.
LEARN YOUR OPTIONS
There are many recliner options available, and all recliners are not created equally. Some are better suited for one application when other are not. Before making a purchase, be sure you understand the options and how they will impact the use you envision. Here are a few things to consider:
- Spacial requirements in the setting
- The typical patient who will sit in the recliner
- What procedures will be done
- What accessories are required
- Will the recliner be mobile or stationary
RESIDENTIAL VS MEDICAL
I would like to clarify a few differences between the residential recliner and a medical recliner.
- Residential upholstery is rarely suitable for healthcare cleaners
- Medical Recliners can go into trendelenburg for emergencies
- Medical Recliners would generally be built sturdier
- Medical recliners allow accessories like IV poles and more
- Medical recliners are usually mobile and transportable
In summary, medical recliners are being used for many more applications today than they have been in the past. If you are a manager of a department in a Canadian hospital and looking for ways of improving efficiencies, patient safety and ergonomics, the medical recliner is something to consider.