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In the last few years, the pandemic has transformed the healthcare industry in terms of quality of patient care and approach to health issues. While digital medium and online consultation saw dramatic hype, there was a lot of curiosity about medical advancements and upcoming trends in medical equipment and technology. This inquisitiveness reiterated the importance of continuous training of healthcare professionals and those related to medical services so that they stay abreast with the changing trends and methodologies.
Various medical institutions and educational organizations offer training and courses that help sharpen these professionals to serve the highest level of patient care and services. In recent times, trusted assessor courses are gaining huge popularity because of the comprehensive curriculum that prepares you to cater the demands of the industry and serve the highest quality of patient care. Before we dive deep into the course, let’s understand who is a trusted assessor.
Who is a Trusted Assessor?
A trusted assessor is someone who is related to medical services or is a healthcare professional. They assist the patients in a variety of ways whether it is making plans, implementing assessments, hospital discharge, audits, or inventories.
A trusted assessor is responsible for a smooth transition of patients from hospital to home. They also promote independent living among elderly and disabled people by assisting and referring to different ways and methods of independent living at home. A good trusted assessor has an in-depth knowledge of the basic medical equipment and general items related to patients, such as dressing aids, mobility aids, kitchen aids, etc.
Depending upon your previous experience and interest, you can choose the area and gather skills in the same domain by opting for trusted assessor courses.
Who can become a Trusted Assessor?
Anyone can become a trusted assessor, whether you are an occupational therapist or a product specialist. Various courses are available with specialization in different areas, such as referring to independent disabled living, demonstrating and implementing minor adaptations, assessment and home improvement, etc.
The course is suitable for surveyors, home agency staff, social workers, care managers, rehabilitation assistants, physiotherapists, technicians, shop assistants, etc.
What are the Duties of a Trusted Assessor?
The work profile of a trusted assessor is not restricted to hospitals or offices, but includes regular home visits and interaction with the patients to understand their issues and chart out a plan that makes their life easier. This might include referrals to a qualified physiotherapist or a change in disabled equipment as per the patient’s requirements. Only an experienced and empathetic assessor can understand the patient’s situation and can make their everyday life easier with their practical solutions.
It is the role of a trusted assessor to understand the risk factors in the lives of patients and provide them with safe options. This might include changes in perching stool, stair rails, bath boards, bed raisers, etc.
Trusted Assessor Courses: Online Vs Practical Training
Although practical training is the best way to learn any skill, one cannot negate the importance of online training, especially after the Covid-19 outbreak. Various leading healthcare organizations and medical institutions offer different types of courses that include both online and practical sessions to showcase a holistic approach to understanding the patient’s needs and intervention. Whether it is about minor adaptations or major changes at home or the knowledge of medical supplies and equipment, it is imperative to have exposure to deal with different situations to succeed as a trusted assessor.
Ending Note
If you have a keen interest in serving people and are passionate about improving the lives of specially-abled people, the trusted assessor courses are a great option. If you look at it professionally, there is a lot of scope in the field of medicine and if you are already related to the healthcare industry, these courses would open up new opportunities to grow both personally and professionally!
According to research, the worldwide medical equipment maintenance market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.4% during 2020-2030 (the forecast period). The rising number of patients, focus on diagnosis, and collaboration between the healthcare professionals and service providers have contributed greatly to boosting this untapped market, which is now booming at a rapid pace. In addition to this, the pandemic has transformed people’s approach and perception towards the healthcare industry, which in turn reiterated the importance of maintaining high standards, whether it is patient care or quality & maintenance of medical supplies and equipment.
The technological advancements in the healthcare industry have led to the emergence of state-of-art equipment that has changed the course of patient care. However, with complicated machinery comes a different challenge, which is the maintenance and upkeep of all the devices to serve the highest quality of patient care.
For a healthcare organization, it is imperative to keep all their equipment in top condition, whether it is an electric hospital bed or a wheelchair, as it is beneficial for both the patients and the organization. Here are some more factors that you might consider understanding the importance of regular maintenance of medical equipment in your organization –
Budget-friendly
Cost-effectiveness is an important factor that plays a crucial role in taking a decision on the annual maintenance of the equipment. As repairing or replacing a certain part of the equipment would cost you a bomb every single time, the option of annual maintenance is a smart choice as it would save a lot of time, energy, and, of course, money. Whether it is an electric wheelchair, hospital beds, or traction equipment, it is better to fix the issue there and then rather than waiting for it to damage the entire machinery. It is important to note that worn-out equipment like a transfer bench can lead to fatal accidents, which may further lead to legal consequences.
Increase Efficiency
Well-maintained equipment will give you the complete value for your money. If your medical equipment is in good condition, it will directly affect the efficiency or performance of the machinery. Irrespective of the size or usage, every piece of equipment plays a crucial role in the care and recovery of the patient. For instance, a blood pressure monitor is as important as the oxygen mask., which in turn enhances the level of patient care.
Extends the Life of Equipment
Regular care and maintenance are essential to extend the life of all the medical equipment. The machinery is made of a combination of different parts that function together, hence, it is essential to make sure that all the spare parts are in good condition. Save yourself from the hassle of replacing and repairing the equipment now and then by opting for a periodic check and repair. A basic item like a bedside commode might not have complicated machinery, but if it fails to facilitate maneuverability because of issues in the locking casters and swivels, it is of no use!
Advanced Technology Calls for Regular Check-ups
The advancement in the medical industry has resulted in state-of-the-art equipment that requires regular maintenance, otherwise there might be issues in the instruments that result in inaccurate analysis or discomfort to patients. All the leading hospitals make sure that all their equipment works properly and deliver astonishing results in terms of functionality. Their medical supply store offers the latest medicines and cleans up the expired supplies at regular intervals. Don’t leave everything for the last hour, instead opt for regular monitoring and clear the issue immediately. Apart from the moral obligation of the hospital to ensure superior patient care, it is a mandate by the government authorities that has charted guidelines to set a certain standard when it comes to machinery and patient care. Regular compliance and audits are done to keep a surveillance on the healthcare institutions. Therefore, to avoid legal implications and maintain the highest standard of patient care, regular maintenance of medical equipment is essential.
The rapid evolution of medical technologies has brought major changes in the healthcare trends at present. Advances in medical equipment have somewhat boosted the efficiency of the delivery of medical services, thereby improving the quality of life of the patients. As a medical practitioner, if you are working with outdated equipment instead of top-of-the-line equipment, it may not only affect your productivity but may also create a negative impact on your reputation. Hence, it is essential that you purchase and utilize new and updated medical equipment in your practice.
However, it cannot be denied that technological advances in the medical field tend to be in a constant state of flux. As such, it is of utmost importance to give a second thought while making investments in new equipment. Apart from medical practitioners, several patients face the need for medical equipment at home for their early recovery. So, should they purchase all the medical equipment that they require or go for a second option? If purchasing does not appear to be a comfortable option, all you can do is lease the medical supplies.
Read on to determine the reasons why you should opt for leasing over buying medical equipment.
Easy to Afford
The foremost advantage of leasing medical equipment is affordability. Leasing assists the medical practitioners in making monthly payments in exchange for using the equipment and returning it at the end of the lease period. Besides that, patients often require medical supplies at home after surgeries or to recover faster. In such a case, leasing may turn out to be advantageous as the supplies can be returned to the medical supply store after his or her recovery.
Financially Flexible
Apart from easy affordability, leasing offers you flexible payment options. People with bad credit scores can always go for leases with flexible payment terms instead of loans. Payment can be easily made in installments. In fact, you can negotiate for low installments. In case you find it comfortable or needful to buy the leased medical equipment, you can do so at the end of the lease period. You can also extend the lease period as per your requirement.
Upgrade in Less Time
As stated earlier, the evolution of new technologies brings frequent updates in medical devices or supplies. Hence, if you are leasing equipment, you get the liberty to get upgraded equipment without bearing heavy expenses. This may enable you to keep pace with the latest technological advancements with ease. On the other hand, if you opt for buying new medical equipment, reselling it might become problematic when the same equipment comes in an updated version in the market.
Improved Patient Care
Use of upgraded medical equipment means the provision of better healthcare services to patients. Most of the time, cost acts as a prohibitive factor in enhancing the quality of patient care. Since leasing makes it cost-efficient for you to utilize the latest and most advanced medical supplies, you can efficiently enhance the quality of patient care and treatment options., thus attracting more clients to improve your revenue.
Save Maintenance and Repair Costs
Lastly, you need to remember that if you purchase new equipment, the entire responsibility for its maintenance lies with you. This means you would be required to bear its maintenance and repair costs. However, with leasing, the responsibility of managing and maintaining the equipment lies on the leasing company. This helps in the reduction of the overall costs for you. If you want to buy or lease medical supplies, you may check the wide range of equipment including knee walkers and manual wheelchairs offered by ACG Medical Supply. Our professionals come to your place to assemble the purchased or rented equipment to make it hassle-free for you. With 20 years of assembly experience, our experts ensure that the assembly of your equipment is done right. We further make sure that you do not find any missing or defective parts when you get home. We also offer a pickup option in store for online purchases. You may call us for curbside delivery.
While struggling with an injury or recovering from different health issues, it is quite common to face mobility issues that may take time to subside. In this scenario, switching to a mobility device or four wheel walkers is the best decision to set yourself free and feel confident while moving around easily. Often called the rollators, these four-wheeler walkers have gradually become the first choice of healthcare professionals in terms of comfort, functionality, and mobility. Let’s dive deep into the various facets and benefits of these walkers.
What is a Rollator?
Conceptualized and designed by the Swede Aina Wifalk, a polio patient, in 1978, the rollator has a foldable frame with a seat to sit and rest; it has three or four wheels that aids in mobility. It can be considered an upgrade of the traditional walkers that needed to be lifted and put down at every step while walking. It was a cumbersome and tiring process for an already exhausted patient who needs to balance the walker while moving. However, rollators are a great option if the patient requires balance or support and has weak arms and body to support while walking through the traditional walkers.
What are the Benefits of Using Rollators?
For patients with critical health issues such as heart failure, COPD, and those recovering from surgeries, a 4 wheel walker would be an easier option over the traditional walkers that require great arm strength and perfect grip. The seating option is another USP of these rollators as it allows the person to sit whenever they feel tired. The wheels help in mobility without tiring one’s arms and allow you to turn 360 degrees without putting any strain on the back and neck. There are a wide array of advanced rollators that come with the option of foot support, cup or cane holders that add to the convenience. Patients struggling with low abdominal strength, fractures, and leg injuries can opt for a rollator with automatic press-button options that can set the height, speed, and direction of movement.
How to Choose the Best Rollator?
Depending upon the patient’s requirement, you can choose from a wide range of four-wheel walkers with advanced options that allow you to adjust the height to support the neck, and position you in the right posture. You can also choose from rollators with an attached basket with a stable and sporty design or with a contoured backrest with brake cables and a cross-brace design. While some walkers have a caster fork design, some may have a removable basket for carrying items. With professional help and guidance from your medical practitioners, you can select the perfect 4 wheel walker.
To simplify things, here’s a checklist that would help you select the best rollator that suits your needs.
- Focus on dimensions: While buying a rollator, pay attention to the length and width of the walker so that you can move around freely inside your home without facing any obstacles.
- Indoor Vs Outdoor: Ask yourself where would you use these walkers frequently? Inside the home or outdoors? Depending upon the usage, select the one that fulfills all your needs.
- Maintenance & Storage: Make sure that the rollators are easy to use and maintain and that there is enough space for storage. Choose compact foldable walkers that can also be carried on long journeys.
- Material & Quality: Quality comes first when it comes to rollators. The type of material used would also decide the weight and design of the chair. Select the one that suits your pocket.
- Additional Features: Invest in a walker that offers you maximum features at competitive prices!
Apart from being an essential mobility device for patients, the 4 wheel walkers are a great tool to imbibe a feeling of independence among patients that rely on their caretakers. ACG Medical provides you the high comfort and easy-to-use features that imbibe confidence in the users, which goes a long way in helping them recover faster.
It is commonly known to all of us that muscles weaken with age. Circulatory systems in our body helps muscles rejuvenate from cell decay and stress that causes the degeneration of muscles. Here, ‘cryotherapy’ or commonly called ‘cold therapy’ comes to a great help to revitalize your extracellular vesicles (EV) which work as shuttles in our circulatory system, and heals muscular injury or degeneration, to keep muscles youthful.
Cold Compression to Reduce Muscular Inflammation
High intensity workouts and age related issues cause burning sensation in muscles that is called ‘inflammation’. Muscle soreness can be a hindrance to your normal routine work, while chronic muscular soreness doesn’t go easily with anti-inflammatory medications. If you are feeling any such difficulty try cold compression therapy that works very effectively for pushing muscles beyond the limits. It also helps in healing of microscopic tear of fibers and tissues. Cooling wraps and ice packs are scientifically proven to improve the blood vessel health and reduce the inflammation caused by fatigue, injury, and sickness.
Cold Compression for Blood Circulation
Our body keeps going on by working of cardiovascular system that is responsible for blood flow and cell regeneration. If this function doesn’t happen properly, muscles become stressed and we get diseases like hypertension, headaches, cramping, and in most severe cases strokes. So, how can we workout for the rejuvenation of our cardiovascular system? Here, cold compression can be really helpful in improving our circulatory system and prolong cell death or ageing. Cold therapy also enhances endurance of our brain and boosts immune system to fight back viruses.
Relieve Lymphatic Nerves with Arctic Ice System
Human lymphatic system excretes the waste, dead cells, and microbes. This system needs proper exercise to cleanse the body and keep away bacteria. Arctic ice system aid this lymphatic system to keep going efficiently. It works on a motor pump that circulates the cold water in lymph nerves and chills the inflammation, swelling and sprain. Arctic ice works excellently for joints and ligaments where our lymphatic system is most prone to injury.
Popular cold therapies like the arctic ice cold water therapy system, aircast cryo, and cryo compression have been one of the most critical components for reviving patients with arthritis, athletes with muscle injury, and overall health among patients. If you are looking for any such assisted cold therapy device, check the inventory of ASG Medical Supply and say ‘no’ to fatigue, headaches, and muscle cramping. Prolonged use of cryotherapy devices helps rejuvenation and well being.
Do you plan to buy medical equipment for your parent or family member? It may seem to be quite a difficult task. We understand that most people go with famous brands and trust their decisions without further research. However, the truth is healthcare is highly dependent on medical equipment. The safety and effectiveness of the equipment result from the medical equipment used, that is important to decide which medical equipment is worth investing in carefully. Below we have stated several factors you need to consider while purchasing medical equipment.
The Reputation of the Brand or Manufacturer
The healthcare industry is so full of manufacturers and users that it gets hard to distinguish between real and fake products. That is especially true for online purchases. Therefore, doing your research can narrow clown your choices to a few specific manufacturers. Look into brands that have built a good reputation in the industry. You can also network with others involved in the medical equipment sector. Even contacting a home medical equipment provider will answer which brands you need to approach. That will give you the knowledge about different manufacturers which can come in handy even in the future.
Variety in Medical Equipment Store
Any good medical store is going to have a wide range of products. They sell these in a highly targeted market. Being in touch with a supplier with a wide variety of medical equipment will allow you to analyze the equipment before purchasing. You can know from the supplier about the functionality of medical devices, technical expertise, testing, and many more. You can go through the supplier’s product inventory and analyze how trustworthy it is through websites.
Quality of Medical Supplies Online and Offline
Quality is the apparent critical latter in the health industry, mainly since the success of a product depends on its accuracy and efficiency. There are warranties and ISO certifications that are trademarks of medical equipment’s ultimate quality. In addition, 150 certifications are done by external medical certification bodies, which do not include the manufacturer or the company. The ISO mark is an independent confirmation for competence. Even medical supplies that get sold online provide certain guarantees and certifications to ensure the quality of the product.
After Sales Support and Services
Even if the medical equipment is of the quality, there is no guarantee that no problem will occur. The issues in metal devices stood noticed within the first 30 to 90 days. After that, it can be a minor adjustment or a significant signing that would need a complete replacement of the device. In such cases, the after-sales support is crucially beneficial. Always get a written warranty. If you receive warranty cards from your supplier, fill and send them out as soon as possible. After that, when your device issues need to get looked at, the supplier’s services will remain present for you.
The best medical suppliers are the ones who keep customer satisfaction above all. ACG Medical Supplies has an extensive range of medical products that you can explore on their site. So check now and see for yourself!
Chairs are part of the active work life today. Whether you are in the office or working from home, you have to remain seated for long hours. It allows for little muscle movement and can create various health issues. People with a regular sedentary lifestyle can often develop problems like back pain and spondylitis. This is something that should not be ignored or it goes on to become a serious health problem over time.
So, what is the solution for people who do have such a lifestyle? Well, first things first, it is best to get an ergonomic and well-designed chair. That done, the other thing you can ensure is to have an easy seating experience. With so many comfortable wheelchair cushions available online, you can choose one that suits you perfectly. Let’s take a look at the range of specifically made chair cushions that are meant to offer you a more relaxed seating even during long hours of work.
Essential Medical Gel Donut Shaped Cushions
These cushions are called so because of their doughnut-like shape. The Essential Cushion is designed to offer reduced strain on your back, thus helping reduce the pain as well. This cushion can be used with wheelchairs, wooden chairs, as well as in vehicles by placing them on the car seat. The cushion usually has more thickness as compared to other types.
Lumbar Cushions Featuring Elastic Strap
Also called the lumbar roll, this type of cushion offers an easy curvature for your back, thus helping to ease the pressure on the back. It has straps for a firm fit. This cushion too can be used on a car seat, wheelchair, or normal chair.
Specially Designed Convoluted Medical Cushions
These are foam-based cushions that reduce the points of pressure and maintain the shape easily. The foam has a flexible form and it retains its shape even after long use. This can be beneficial to those who feel point pressure and need to correct their posture more often.
Besides these best wheelchair cushions meant for seating, you can also use, in combination, the back support cushion. It offers custom alignment and comes in handy when you are looking to reduce stiffness and lower back problems. The anatomical shape offers form-fitting spinal support. The shape contours adjust well.
So, these are some of the solutions for better sedentary comfort. People in their old age or those who have to sit at their desks for long hours can benefit by using these cushions. Engineered to offer more comfort, these accessories give you peace of mind as you can address your back pain issues and other health problems related to your lifestyle. It can also be used if you face problems like pressure ulcers. So, explore these products today to pick the ones you would need the most.
Designed to provide a basic and much-needed facility, a commode chair acts as a second toilet for someone who is facing challenges in sitting in the washroom or accessibility issues due to some sickness or injury. Whether you are recovering from a leg fracture or you are an elderly whose body is not fit enough, foldable commode chairs definitely come handy.
A commode chair near the bedside of the patient not only provides him/her the support facility for using the toilet but also decreases the reliance on someone. The folding commode can be transported anywhere without facing difficulties. Before purchasing it, special consideration has to be given as there are lots of options available for buying medical supplies online or from the shop, but you need the best one, as for someone already injured, a re-injury must be avoided.
Benefits of Folding Commode chairs
Easy transport: A folding commode chair is portable, so it can be easily moved and the caretaker can push it without much effort. It can be folded and unfolded in seconds and can be transported from one place to another, conveniently.
A bedside toilet: For those people who are handicapped or are in a wheelchair, the width of washroom doors does not support the access. These commode chairs relieve them of such a challenge. The chair can be placed near the bedside for an easy and comfortable reach out.
Helps in quick recovery: The commode support helps ensure you don’t exert yourself in order to use the washroom. An injured patient’s stitches could come out if they are not taking precautions. It is better to consider the material and build quality of such portable commodes. If made of steel, folding chairs are often durable and sturdy.
Best for senior citizens: Some old-age persons are physically weak and they find it difficult to bend or stoop in the washroom. Using this support chair comes as a relief.
Suitable for pregnant women: During the last few months of pregnancy, sitting on a low height commode in the washroom can be worrisome for a to-be-mother, so these folding commodes chairs can be adjusted according to the height of an individual.
Can be availed online: Many eCommerce websites have made these chairs available on the internet. Nowadays, so many medical professionals recommend the right chairs that are designed to suit your requirements. You can review the online range with the help of these recommendations, too.
Nova Folding Commode – Why it makes a Difference
Among all the options that are available, the folding commode chairs from Nova are something you can rely on. They are designed to fold and unfold quickly, making them a perfect toilet accessory when you are traveling. The Nova chair can also be used in your washroom as a raised toilet – ideal for someone who faces issues while bending down. It features a steel frame that can be adjusted according to one’s height, making it easier and comfortable to use. It also comes with a bucket, lid, and splash guard.
Besides all these features, its weight holding capacity is remarkable. The Nova commodes are cushioned to provide comfortable seating. Their availability is not limited to dull and monotonous designs, as they come in vibrant colors, like blue and orange.
You can check out the complete range of such specifically designed commode chairs online.
For those who face any disability, technology has come to their rescue in many ways on several occasions. Electric scooters specially designed and made for the disabled is another such example of how things can be made easier for the less fortunate with the use of tech-driven products. Let’s take a look at the advantages of using these special scooters.
Benefits of the Special Electric Scooters:
- Safe Mode of Transportation: These Electric Scooters have been tested for their safety and designed in a way that you can easily and comfortably carry your daily errands on it; there is minimum or no risk of accidents.
- Helps save your energy: For someone who is already sick or lacks the ability to perform physical work, these scooters would just minimize their exertion, offering them a comfortable ride.
- Quick healing: As it is said that nature is a great healer, these scooters will help you commute to the nearest park or open areas, so that you can get a breath of fresh air. The cheerful birds and life around will surely make your day.
- Avoid risks: Mishappening can take place anywhere anytime. So, your inability to walk perfectly won’t become a barrier if you are to run in order to save yourself from fire, earthquakes, etc. This scooter would help you move to a safe place, easily.
3 Wheel Electric Scooters – Lightweight and Comfortable
The 3 Wheel Electric Scooters are a perfect tool for commuting and as these are lightweight and can be transported easily with its wireless disassembly. These scooters are effective, efficient, and multifunctional medical tools. They have up to 300 lb of weight capacity and feature an adjustable armrest and seat. The full 360-degree swivel mechanism helps you get on and off the scooter easily. From shopping to exploring places, owning a 3 Wheel Electric Scooter can be truly life-changing.
4 Wheel Electric Scooters – a Robust Transportation
Designed with the best manufacturing technology, 4 Wheel Electric Scooters are perfect for mobility around cities, shopping malls, and subways. They are fit for both indoor and outdoor movement and come in attractive styling with vibrant colors. These are exceptionally high-quality machines – a perfect example of comfort and affordability. They ensure safety and protection from accidents and mishaps, so individuals with a disability can safely transport themselves.
Getting Medical Supplies Online – a Convenient Way to Shop!
Smartphones and the world of the internet have made lives so easy and comfortable that there is hardly anything that is not available online. Acquiring medical supplies online is becoming a norm. Nowadays, it is the same as buying clothes and other electronic appliances online. More and more doctors and medical professionals are taking interest in shopping for medical equipment through an eCommerce website.
The local medical stores are not always open, so buying medical supplies online offers you the ease of any time and anywhere purchase. You can also customize the order, get discounts or track your order status.
Here are some pointers we should consider when we are shopping for a bath chair for ourselves or a loved one:
- A bath chair is essential for the safety of anyone who is weak, unsteady or recovering from surgery.
- The bath chair is available in padded or non-padded versions. Most all bath chairs are height adjustable.
- Bath benches or bath chairs are available with arms or without arms.
- Bath chairs can include a backrest or you can get a simple bath chair without a back.
- Some bath chairs are designed to hold up to 250 pounds, while others can hold up to 500 pounds or more.
- Bath chairs are designed to go in a shower stall or a bathtub with a shower head installed.
- I like to suggest grab bars and hand held showers any time we are using a bath chair.
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