Not what you mean by "stemming". Solid seat?? Not necessarily but my concern with an open seat is that she will not be able to "clear" her bottom across the opening.
She just does not have the strength and/or strategy to clear her bottom UNLESS she has elevated hand rests. For example, she can clear her bottom while sitting in her w/c by using the arm rests. But she can not clear her bottom while sitting on a solid surface with no armrests. She does have a shower wheelchair but no roll-in shower. MONEY is an issue as there is no insurance. One thing that I know is that she is determined to be independent. I have previously worked with a couple people who are s/c injury and now live independently in the community. I'm considering asking if they will take a trip with me to the patient's home. I am also going to consult with a DME specializing in lightweight w/c's to see about getting the patient out of her cumbersome power w/c. So much to work on!! Ron ----- Original Message ----- From: susanne <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Sunday, June 03, 2007 To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Subj: [OTlist] On-Line Collaboration (5/31) Update s> Ron Carson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: s> (snip) >> Next week, we will begin addressing tub transfers. >> Currently we are >> thinking that a tub transfer bench is the best solution, >> however, there >> multiple problems with this. >> >> 1. Stability of the bench >> >> 2. How to clean the perianal area while on a solid surface >> >> I appreciate suggestions regarding #2. s> OK - here's what I can think of ATM: s> Try same ways as one does weightshifts (besides stemming): s> Leaning far to one side, your opposite buttock cheek will s> elevate. Leaning far forward, both buttocks will elevate s> some. Scooting forwards for cleaning the private parts - s> (same as for female cathing). I imagine the weight and s> balance issues might complicate this, so - does it have to s> be a solid seat bench? s> Also - a shower hose to reach all parts is sort of a must s> IMO. And, naked transfers can be a danger to skin s> integrity - a pillow case over the transfer board might be s> helpful. Transferring back when wet is difficult, so dry s> well while still on bench. >> >> Thanks, s> You're so welcome - this is actually fun to do. I'm just s> feeling a bit wary of doing this "showering with words" - s> knowing it takes a lot to both learn, and build strength - s> wishing she had the opportunity to spend more time in SCI s> rehab, and especially learn from peers. Old-timers going in s> for check-ups are the best role models! s> Wishing you both luck! s> susanne -- Options? www.otnow.com/mailman/options/otlist_otnow.com Archive? www.mail-archive.com/[email protected] ************************************************************************************** Enroll in Boston University's post-professional Master of Science for OTs Online. Gain the skills and credentials to propel your career. www.otdegree.com/otn **************************************************************************************
