Unlocking Potential: Unicare Educates Allied Health Partners on the Multifunctionality of Shower Commodes
Shower Commode and Bathroom Solutions
- Precision in prescriptions
Friday, 19 July 2024
Technology Park Function Centre, Bentley
What are shower commodes?
Shower commodes are essential pieces of assistive technology designed to enhance safety and independence for individuals with limited mobility, particularly the elderly or those with disabilities.
A shower commode is essentially a chair that features an open seat, allowing it to be used both in the shower and positioned over a toilet. This design helps users maintain personal hygiene while minimizing the risk of slips and falls in wet environments, which can be particularly hazardous for those with mobility challenges.
Why is it important to choose the right shower commode?
Choosing the right shower commode is important for several key reasons:
- Safety: The right shower commode helps prevent slips, falls, and injuries in the bathroom, which is a high-risk area for accidents, especially for elderly or mobility-impaired individuals. Features like safety arms, non-slip weight-bearing footrest, and appropriate safe working load are crucial for ensuring user safety.
- Independence and dignity: A well-chosen shower commode allows users to maintain their independence and privacy while bathing or using the toilet. This sense of autonomy is vital for preserving dignity and overall well-being.
- Comfort: The right commode provides comfort during use, which is essential since users may need to sit for extended periods. Features like pressure care seat, backrest support, and proper sizing contribute to comfort.
- Functionality: Different commodes offer various features to meet specific needs. For example, shower commodes can be used as a shower chair, over-toilet aid as well as a mobility and even transfer aid. Choosing the right model and features ensures the commode serves its intended purpose effectively.
- Hygiene: Proper commode selection facilitates better personal hygiene practices, which is crucial for health and preventing infections.
- Caregiver support: The right commode can make caregiving tasks easier and safer, reducing strain on both the user and caregiver during transfers and personal care routines.
- Durability and maintenance: Selecting a commode made from appropriate materials (e.g., rust-resistant, easy to clean) ensures longevity and easier maintenance.
- Adaptability: Some users may require adjustable features or additional support options. Choosing a commode that can be customized or adjusted helps meet changing needs over time.
By carefully considering factors such as size, weight capacity, materials, stability, comfort, and specific user requirements, one can select a shower commode that enhances safety, independence, and quality of life for the user.
Shower Commode Training Workshop
We recently conducted a clinical training workshop focused on the intricacies of prescribing custom shower commodes. This session emphasized the multifaceted nature of these assistive devices, exploring their diverse functions beyond simply showering and toileting assistance.
The workshop was led by Annette Dumble, our esteemed clinical educator, and Crystal Chan, our subject matter expert in shower commodes. Participants learned how to conduct thorough assessments, considering client needs, environmental factors, and safety. The workshop also covered strategies for effective trials and implementation, clinical features, and case studies from experienced clinicians.
Annette expertly outlined the multifunctionality of a shower commode. She introduced the differences between self-propelled and attendant-propelled shower commodes and taught attendees how to determine the right match for their clients. Understanding the client’s routine, post-toileting cleanup process and environmental needs were all discussed as crucial factors to consider during the prescription process.
Annette emphasised the importance of tailoring the solution to the individual since clients are far more likely to use equipment that is comfortable and easy for them. “The most expensive piece of equipment you’ll ever buy is the one that goes unused!”
JUVOcare Shower Commodes
At Unicare Health, we proudly offer shower commodes from the industry-leading manufacturer, JUVOcare. Renowned for their adjustable features, these commodes are designed to meet individual needs effectively. Crystal introduced attendees to the most popular range of JUVOcare shower commodes, highlighting unique features such as non-slip weight-bearing footplates, removable leg rests, and height-adjustable capabilities.
JUVOcare shower commodes are rigorously tested and conform to Australian Standards (AS/NZS 3973:2009). Their unique design and patented features, such as the "tearsafe" legrest design, prevent injury to users' skin, making them a preferred choice for various healthcare settings.
Crystal went on to highlight some innovative models, like Juvocare's self-propelled, folding shower commode with swing-away footplates. The folding design makes the commode easy to store and transport, which is particularly beneficial for caregivers and users who need to move the commode between different locations.
Crystal expertly showcased the diverse features of Juvocare's commode range, ranging from swing-away armrests to quick-release rear wheels that are level with seat for easy transfers. Her presentation highlighted how both clients, carers and clinicians can benefit from these innovative features to enhance comfort and functionality. Her comprehensive overview not only demonstrated product versatility but also underscored Juvo's commitment to innovation and personalized care solutions.
Crystal showcased her impressive photo collection of custom commode seats, each uniquely designed in collaboration with occupational therapists to meet specific client needs. She provided detailed explanations for each customization, highlighting the thoughtful rationale behind her design choices. For those new to customizing commode seats, Crystal offered invaluable advice: start by assessing the client's current seat and identifying its limitations. This approach, she explained, serves as a good start for the customization process. She reassured the group that she would be happy to help anyone with a client in need of a custom commode seat.
Crystal explained the Juvo Registered Design "Klipps" System - an innovative feature found on Juvo shower commodes that allows for easy removal and attachment of the commode seat. This proprietary design is one of the many features that make Juvo shower commodes stand out in terms of practicality and user-friendliness. By simplifying the process of seat removal and attachment, the "Klipps" System helps caregivers and users maintain hygiene more easily and efficiently.
Crystal shed light on instances where tilt in space shower commodes could be particularly beneficial in addressing healthcare needs and manual handling requirements. She conducted a comparative analysis of the key features of manual and electric tilt-in-space commodes, utilizing case studies to illustrate their distinct advantages tailored to various client needs.
She also demonstrated the process of modifying JUVO shower commodes using a variety of accessories. These clever modifications have the power to maximise function, postural control, and comfort for clients with unique needs, empowering clinicians to personalise solutions effectively.
Juvo shower commodes feature flexible, anti-bacterial, non-woven back straps that are designed to provide support and comfort for users. These back straps are an integral part of Juvo shower commodes, contributing to the overall design that prioritizes user comfort, safety, and hygiene. They are particularly beneficial in wet environments where traditional rigid supports might be uncomfortable or potentially harmful. The combination of flexibility, anti-bacterial properties, and non-suction design makes these straps well-suited for use in shower and toileting situations, where the user's skin may be wet and more susceptible to damage.
The Bodypoint Aeromesh Shower Chair Calf Support is designed specifically for use with shower commode chairs. It is fully machine washable up to 60°C and features a clip-on design for a complete, protective, and hygienic solution.
When selecting a Bodypoint hip belt for a shower commode, consider factors such as the user's positioning needs, ease of use in a wet environment, and compatibility with the specific shower commode design. It's important to ensure proper sizing and installation for optimal safety and comfort during use.
Following the informative presentations, attendees had the opportunity to engage in an interactive, hands-on exploration of shower commodes and accessories. This practical session allowed them to apply their newly acquired knowledge, gaining a deeper appreciation for the key features that define these shower commodes.
By the conclusion of the workshop, participants were not only well-informed but also confident in their ability to expertly handle and recommend shower commode prescriptions, ensuring optimal care and comfort for their clients.
Thank You
Thank you to everyone who attended this workshop to become more effective at managing shower commode prescriptions. We trust that this session has broadened your perspective on the versatility and multifunctionality of shower commodes, enabling you to make more informed and effective prescriptions. The real-life case studies shared during the workshop were designed to provide practical insights and foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and solutions in this field. We hope you enjoyed analysing them with us.
At Unicare Health, we are privileged to support a dedicated community of occupational therapists and allied health professionals who share our vision and commitment to improving healthcare through the strategic application of assistive technology. We look forward to further collaboration and the positive impact we can collectively make for clients in our care.
If you’d like to learn more about prescribing assistive technology solutions, be sure explore our upcoming events and subscribe to our newsletter so that you can stay informed about clinical training opportunities.
Thank you for being a part of the Unicare Health community. We hope to see you at another event soon!
