Enhancing Mobility: Equipment & Best Practices in Skilled Nursing

Skilled nursing provides comprehensive care to patients who require specialized medical attention and rehabilitation services tailored to their unique needs. Typically, individuals receiving skilled nursing care often have multiple chronic conditions and may be recovering from significant events such as surgery or an acute illness. 

These circumstances can present challenges, making it difficult for patients to move independently and perform daily activities without assistance.

Mobility is a critical aspect of care in skilled nursing environments. It not only helps maintain physical function and strength but also plays an important role in promoting independence and overall well-being. Skilled nursing usually involves a team of healthcare professionals, including nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, who work closely with patients to develop personalized mobility plans.

These plans often include targeted exercises, assistive devices, and techniques to improve balance and coordination, ensuring individuals regain their independence and enhance their quality of life. 

Ultimately, the goal of skilled nursing care is to empower individuals to reach their fullest potential, both physically and emotionally, as they navigate their recovery journey.

The Importance of Equipment in Enhancing Mobility

Depending on their condition, individuals may require different types of equipment to support their movement and improve their overall well-being.  Here are some of the most commonly used pieces of equipment in skilled nursing:

• Canes: Canes are often used to provide stability and support to individuals who have difficulty walking or maintaining balance. They come in different designs, including single-point canes, quad canes, and tripod canes, to suit various mobility needs.
• Walkers: Similar to canes, walkers help individuals maintain their balance and provide additional support while walking. These devices come in several types, such as standard walkers with four legs and wheeled walkers for ease of movement.
• Wheelchairs: For individuals with limited mobility or those recovering from surgery or injuries that affect lower body function, wheelchairs offer a means of transportation and promote independent movement. Motorized wheelchairs are also available for those who have difficulty propelling manual wheelchairs.
• Adjustable beds: These specialized beds allow individuals to change their position, including raising or lowering their head and feet, with ease. They can improve comfort and aid in various activities, such as eating, reading, and watching television.

These are just a few examples of the equipment used for individuals under skilled nursing care. Other devices that may be utilized include transfer boards, gait belts, shower chairs, and commodes. The use of these tools not only enhances mobility but also promotes safety and prevents falls and other accidents.

The Role of Skilled Nursing Staff in Enhancing Mobility

In addition to having the right equipment, skilled nursing staff play an essential and multifaceted role in promoting and maintaining individuals’ mobility, which is crucial for overall health and well-being. Their involvement encompasses a variety of important activities designed to support individuals in regaining and retaining their mobility, ultimately leading to improved quality of life. This includes:

• Creating individualized care plans: Skilled nursing staff work closely with individuals and their families to develop personalized care plans that address specific needs and goals. These plans often include exercises and activities aimed at improving strength, balance, coordination, and overall mobility.
• Providing physical therapy: Physical therapy is a crucial aspect of skilled nursing care, focusing on strengthening muscles, improving balance and coordination, addressing pain and discomfort, and promoting overall physical well-being. Skilled nursing staff work closely with physical therapists to implement tailored exercise routines for individuals.
• Assisting with daily tasks: In addition to providing medical care, skilled nursing staff also assist individuals with daily tasks such as grooming, dressing, and toileting. These activities are essential for maintaining muscle strength, coordination, and overall mobility.
• Encouraging and motivating: Skilled nursing staff play a vital role in keeping individuals motivated and engaged in their mobility-enhancing activities. They provide support, encouragement, and gentle reminders to help individuals stay on track with their care plans.
• Monitoring progress: Regular monitoring of patient progress is critical for adjusting care plans as needed and ensuring that treatment goals are being met. Skilled nursing staff closely monitor changes in mobility, pain levels, and overall well-being to ensure the best possible outcome for each person.

Empowering Mobility with Comprehensive Skilled Nursing Care at Juniper

Promoting mobility in skilled nursing care goes beyond just physical interventions and equipment. It involves a holistic approach that incorporates education, environment, and activities to empower individuals and improve their overall well-being. By making mobility a priority in daily routines, skilled nursing staff can help individuals maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. 

At Juniper Village at the Spearly Center, we understand the importance of promoting mobility in skilled nursing care and strive to provide a safe, empowering environment. We believe that every individual deserves to live their life to the fullest, and we are committed to supporting their physical and emotional well-being through our comprehensive care approach.

Contact us today to learn more about our long-term skilled nursing care services and how we can help you or your loved one maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.