What are some safe handling techniques when handling a patient with ALS?
Answer
First, use a gait belt at the trunk and be aware of the PEG tube. Always apply the abdominal binder. Support the head in upright sitting or in supine (patient should not lay flat). Facilitate a chin tuck position and avoid hyperextension. Do not pull on the patient's arms as it may cause should subluxation because muscles are weak. That will also result in pain. Use a draw sheet to move in bed. Avoid any pulling by placing your arm under patient's armpit. Support shoulder blade when rolling patient and other hand on trunk.
Jennifaye V. Brown, PT, MSPT, PhD, NCS, CAPS
Jennifaye V. Brown, PT, MSPT, PhD, NCS, CAPS has 35 years of clinical experience focused in neurorehabilitation across the continuum of care and has presented numerous continuing education courses on adult neurologic assessment and treatment intervention for acquired brain injury, particularly stroke. Her primary research explored the perceptions of individuals with stroke regarding their experiences with AFO fabrication, modification, and maintenance, and how the AFO impacts walking and participation in life roles, resulting in the book, Brace Yourself - Everything You Need to Know About AFOs After Stroke. She is an NDT-trained therapist with six additional courses taken after the NDT (Bobath) Three Week Course on Treatment of Adult Hemiplegia course. As an Advanced Credentialed Clinical Instructor by the Clinical Instructor Education Board and a four 10-year term board-certified neurologic clinical specialist by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) of the APTA, Dr. Brown has taught at six PT and two PTA programs. She is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist, a member of the APTA, Neurology Section of the APTA, SC Chapter of the APTA, and Athletics & Fitness Association of America, and a graduate of the prestigious APTA Fellowship in Education Leadership.
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