Improving Lives - Winston's Story

A story about reducing the amount of transfers and care providers for a continent person 

Due to Winston’s Multiple Sclerosis condition he experiences fatigue, muscular weakness and the frequent need to use the commode. This means toileting throughout the day can be problematic. A change in condition curtailed the use of a stand aid and sling. Winston was initially provided with an access-style toileting sling by his local authority. However, because of the progression of his condition, the sling was not providing sufficient support. Winston was ‘sliding’ through the aperture, which in turn caused the sling to ride up into his armpits increasing the risk of injury.

 

Winston’s occupational therapist was aware of the glove Convenience Max™ (GCM).  She contacted Steve Watson, National Sales Assessment Manager to attend a joint assessment.  Steve was not surprised to receive such a call given the high level of people that cannot safely tolerate an access-style toileting sling, which is generally considered within the industry as only suitable for around one in four people (25%)

 

The difference with the glove Convenience Max™ is that it does not rely on the users own upper body strength or tone.  The in-built self-adjusting corset-style harness literally hugs the user during hoisting, so that the sling not the person is taking the strain, meaning muscle tone is less relevant.  For people like Winston, the ingenuity of this design has a huge impact, expanding suitability for access sling use. The corset body also means a large aperture can be retained so (un)dressing can still be carried out in-situ.

 

To further support the body and increase comfort, the glove Convenience Max™ features several one-way-grip velvet fabric sections at the lumbar, back panel and underarm, helping prevent any slippage, which Winston found reassuring as well.  Furthermore, deep padding to these sections increases the comfort aspect for these key touch points, getting another thumbs-up from him. 

 

Yet another big plus for Winston’s circumstances was the padded non-binding and seamless leg sections.   This patented design significantly decreases the pressure risks associated with raised-edge binding, leading to a more comfortable hoisting experience, which he enthusiastically welcomed.

 

Speaking of the successful outcome, Steve reflected on the impact the glove Convenience Max™ has made to Winston and others like him.  “It’s immensely satisfying to see how a sling like the GCM makes such a difference to a user’s quality of life.  The improved support and increased comfort is of course fantastic, but for me what really makes this sling special is that it gives the chance for normality surrounding the act of toileting to more less-abled users than ever before.  Through increasing user suitability and thereby averting the need for multiple transfers from bed to toilet to bed again, this is so much better for the user and for a single-handed carer tooI’m genuinely delighted we were able to provide a real-world solution for Winston that he benefits from daily.”

 

*Due to the sensitivities of medical conditions, names have been changed to protect privacy.  Images used are for illustrative purposes only