Abacus to present new assisted bathing CPD seminars at OT Show 2024

Abacus Specialist Bathroom Solutions, in association with The Occupational Therapy Service, will be presenting its popular on-stand and theatre-based CPD sessions at the Occupational Therapy Show (Stand D20, NEC, 27–28 November 2024).

Winner of the ‘best on-stand education’ at the 2023 OT Show, Abacus is a leading manufacturer of accessible baths for adults and children with disabilities. Part of the Gainsborough Healthcare Group, Abacus 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 responsible for clinical reasoning in the accessible bathroom environment. OTs can benefit from free ‘Lunch ‘n’ Learn’ sessions, bath demonstrations and client assessments thanks to the fleet of Abacus educational vehicles.

The ‘express’ Abacus Academy CPD presentations at the 2024 OT Show will be:

1. Reflection on adaptations across health sectors: determining return on investment

Stand D20, Adam Ferry, Occupational Therapist and Director, The Occupational Therapy Service
27th November, 10:00 – 10:20
28th  November, 10:00 – 10:20

Synopsis

Whilst there is a distinct difference between funding available in the private and public sectors, both rely on robust clinical reasoning and evidence base in order to ensure money is used efficiently and effectively.  They should also both start with the same basic premise that the recommendations will improve health and well-being, maximising independence and dignity.  This session challenges why therefore recommendations often differ so drastically.

Learning outcomes

  • Reflect on the impact of legislation across health sectors
  • Consider the role of ‘necessary and appropriate’
  • Discuss the evidence of ROI and how to apply it
  • Challenge consistency of ‘occupation centred’ assessment

2. The importance of comfort and multi-user bathing

Stand D20, Lauren Hopkins, Occupational Therapist (The Occupational Therapy Service)
27th  November, 11:15 – 11:35
28th  November, 11:15 – 11:35

Synopsis

This session considers whether bathing assessments for clients with complex needs have truly been able to consider the family unit and the impact on bathing as a meaningful occupation. We consider the challenges of specialist bathing for the family, and opportunities created by innovative product development on clinical reasoning.

Learning outcomes

  • Reflect on legislation that guides adaptations and the impact on others
  • Discuss role theory and the impact of adaptations
  • Challenge whether comfort plays a big enough role in the assessment process
  • Consider the impact of the updated Gemini on occupational therapists ability to use specialist baths that meet the needs of a family

3. Changing tables, moving & handling, and bathing: the impact on care

Stand D20, Lauren Hopkins, Occupational Therapist (The Occupational Therapy Service)
27th  November, 13:15 – 13:35
28th  November, 12:30 – 12:50

Synopsis

One of the most discussed topics with therapists, this session looks to provide a critical review of moving and handling practices when bathing.  We look at the routines, habitual practices and challenges when using multiple devices to complete bathing and changing, as well as the opportunities to reduce handling, maximise dignity, and comfort.

Learning outcomes

  • Reflect on moving and handling plans for bathers who are hoisted
  • Consider how we integrate changing and drying into the bathing process
  • Discuss the potential challenges and opportunities to support carers with moving/handling, and bathing

4. “Need, want and expectation”: Exploring occupation as part of housing adaptations

Showcase Theatre, Adam Ferry, Occupational Therapist and Director, The Occupational Therapy Service
27th  November, 14:40 – 15:10
28th  November, 13:30 – 14:00

Synopsis

Following on from the successful ‘client centred bathing’ CPD offering, this session explores what occupational therapists consider ‘occupation’ to mean, and its impact on assessments.  We explore and challenge practice to consider what ‘occupationally focused’ means and the role adaptations play.

Learning outcomes

  • Reflect on the term ‘occupation’ to explore the occupational therapy role
  • Consider whether occupation truly is central to assessments for housing adaptations
  • Challenge the impact of pressure, workload and organisational values on recommendations