The purpose of mobility assessment is to make sure a patient can do a task before relying on them to do it. This ensures the safety of the patient and the health care worker or caregiver.
Facilities have their own mobility and SPHM assessment methods. Therapists, nurses and non-licensed personnel may also have different assessment and screening methods. Whatever method is used for your facility, the tool needs to be consistent and communicated in a standardized or reliable way.
Nursing Assessment
Nursing can use a screening method to allow patients to be mobile before therapy consult — which prevents extended periods of immobility. Outpatient and diagnostic staff can use a screening method to identify patient abilities before transfer. Screening methods and equipment decisions may be specific to an area, task, or patient population.
An assessment will help determine the patient's level of:
- Cooperation and comprehension
- Weight bearing capability
- Balance and ability to step
- Grasp and upper extremity strength
- Weight
The assessment should also capture conditions affecting mobility and transfer, including but not limited to wounds and incisions, lines and tubes, strong and weak sides, or contractures.
It is important that your facility have a standardized and reliable method of communicating the mobility level of the patient.
View on YouTube: Mobility Assessment
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Times for Assessment
Typically a patient will be assessed at these times:
- Admission
- Each shift and when patient condition changes — or for long term care, periodically and when condition changes
- Handoff between departments
- Screening by non-registered nurses, such as evening nurse assistants and radiology techs
- If assessments differ or are unclear, there should be open discussion between the care team. Consider the goals of care and the safety of the patient and staff, including fall protection, skin protection, and prevention of complications associated with immobility.
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Selecting SPHM Equipment
Many factors will affect your selection of safe patient handling and mobility equipment.
- Space constraints and environment may affect methods. For example, a floor-based lift may be difficult to use in small areas or on carpet and may not fit around tables or stretchers.
- More than one choice may be appropriate. Think about backup options if the first option is unavailable. Patient preference may be a consideration as well.
- Equipment availability may vary by area. If you do not have a safe way to assist a patient, talk to your SPHM Facility Coordinator or Unit Peer Leader about options.
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