Abacus to present comprehensive assisted bathing CPD education at OT Show 2022

Abacus Specialist Bathroom Solutions, in association with The OT Service, will be presenting a series of on-stand and theatre-based accessible bathing CPD sessions at the Occupational Therapy Show (Stand D20, NEC, 23rd and 24th November 2022).

Abacus is regarded as a leading 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.

Hosted by respected Occupational Therapists, the Abacus Academy CPD presentations will be:

‘Sensory bathing – bridging the gap’

Stand D20, 10:00-10:20am, 23rd and 24th Nov. Jacqui Waller, OT

Synopsis

This session looks to explore the bather’s sensory experience, the challenges, and potential therapeutic interventions, to maximise the positive experience.

Learning objectives

  • Review of what is meant by ‘sensory processing’ and how information is interpreted
  • Reflect on bathing as a sensory experience
  • Consider the evidence base and apply to models of sensory processing
  • Discuss strategies for those who seek or avoid sensation in everyday life
  • Reflect on strategies for an improved bather experience

‘Future-proofing bathing’

Stand D20, 12:00 noon-12:20pm, 23rd and 24th Nov. Adam Ferry, OT

Synopsis

The short CPD session 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.

Learning objectives

  • Review of supporting legislation and guidance
  • Reflect on current practice of futureproofing
  • Consider the impact on objective assessment and application of activity analysis 

‘Handling’ the bather – finding practical solutions’

Stand D20, 2:40-3pm, 23rd and 24th Nov. Adam Ferry, OT

Synopsis

Moving and handling can often feel daunting, particularly for bathing, when the perceived risks created by the environment often lead to alternative recommendations.  This session looks to break down some of those barriers, using equipment to consider clinical scenarios and find realistic solutions, whilst supporting meaningful, occupational bathing.

Learning objectives

  • Consider the risk assessment process and application for bathing
  • Review moving and handling challenges for bath transfers
  • Reflect on how equipment can support bathing for the person with handling and postural needs

‘Proportionate spending – using adaptations to reduce long term costs’

Innovation Theatre – 23rd Nov, 13:50 and 24th Nov, 10:40. Adam Ferry, OT

Synopsis

How often do you walk past a stand and think “they’re expensive so won’t be approved”?  The term expensive relates to perception about an initial one-off cost, but what about the long-term impact of that spend?

This session looks to challenge the issue of cost, reflecting on the financial impact of equipment and adaptations.  We focus 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.

Learning objectives

  • Reflect on our pre-conceived ideas about cost, and when it becomes ‘expensive’.
  • Review the use of adaptations and equipment to reduce long-term spending
  • Consider the impact of supporting long-term health and well-being on the care system