Abacus to present accessible bathing CPD sessions at the upcoming OT Show
Accessible bathroom supplier Abacus Specialist Bathroom Solutions will be presenting a series of on-stand and theatre-based accessible bathing CPD sessions at the OT Show, which takes place at Birmingham’s NEC from 23-24 November 2022.
The Abacus Academy CPD sessions will be hosted by occupational therapists (OTs) in association with The OT Service.
From 10am-10.20am on both days, on stand D20, Jacqui Waller, OT, will present ‘Sensory bathing – bridging the gap’, which looks to explore the bather’s sensory experience, the challenges, and potential therapeutic interventions, to maximise the positive experience.
Intended learning objectives for the session includes a review of what is meant by ‘sensory processing’ and how information is interpreted; reflection on bathing as a sensory experience; considering the evidence base and apply to models of sensory processing; discussing strategies for those who seek or avoid sensation in everyday life and reflection on strategies for an improved bather experience.
Next, from 12pm-12:20pm, also on both days on stand D20, Adam Ferry, OT, will present ‘Future-proofing bathing’, a short CPD session which will focus on how therapists incorporate future proofing into their bathing recommendations, both to create financial efficiency and support the long-term needs of the client.
The presentation will review of supporting legislation and guidance, reflect on current practice of futureproofing and consider the impact on objective assessment and application of activity analysis.
In the afternoon from 2:40pm-3pm on both days on stand D20, Adam Ferry will present ‘Handling the bather – finding practical solutions’. This session will look at breaking down some of the barriers in moving and handling when bathing, equipment to consider clinical scenarios and find realistic solutions will be used to support meaningful, occupational bathing.
The session will consider the risk assessment process and application for bathing, review moving and handling challenges for bath transfers and reflect on how equipment can support bathing for the person with handling and postural needs.
Finally, in the Innovation Theatre on 23rd November at 1:50pm and 24th November at 10:40am, Adam Ferry is set to present ‘Proportionate spending – using adaptations to reduce long term costs’. The session looks to challenge the issue of cost, reflecting on the financial impact of equipment and adaptations. Focusing specifically on bathing and consider whether the installation of a specialist bath can justifiably be used to save money through care reduction and facilitation of health and well-being.
The session covers reflection on pre-conceived ideas about cost, and when it becomes ‘expensive’, a review of the use of adaptations and equipment to reduce long-term spending and considering the impact of supporting long-term health and well-being on the care system.
Abacus is a specialist in accessible baths for adults and children with disabilities. Part of the Gainsborough Healthcare Group, Abacus is a UK manufacturer which works closely with occupational therapists, bathers and families to ensure positive bathing outcomes for all. Its Abacus Academy educational programme is available free to all healthcare professionals seeking support with clinical reasoning when specifying appropriate bathing equipment.
Recently, Abacus demonstrated its popular Gemini 2000 and Aries 2000 dual lift baths at Kidz to Adultz North.
