OTs to benefit from free CPD bathing seminars held in association with the OT Service

Assistive bath provider 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 OT Show 2022.

This year’s occupational therapy event takes place at Birmingham’s NEC from 23-24 November 2022.

Hosted by respected occupational therapists (OTs), there are a range of Abacus Academy CPD presentations running at the OT Show.

At 10am-10.20am on stand D20 on 23 and 24 November, Jacqui Waller, OT, will present ‘Sensory bathing – bridging the gap’. This session will explore the bather’s sensory experience, the challenges, and potential therapeutic interventions to maximise the positive experience.

Intended learning objectives for the session include 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 on stand D20 on 23 and 24 November, Adam Ferry, OT, will present ‘Future-proofing bathing’. This short CPD session will focus on how OTs 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 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 stand D20 on 23 and 24 November, Adam will also present ‘Handling the bather – finding practical solutions’. The session looks to break down some of the barriers in moving and handling when bathing; equipment to consider clinical scenarios; and find realistic solutions that will be used to support meaningful, occupational bathing.

Learning objectives for this session include considering the risk assessment process and application for bathing; reviewing moving and handling challenges for bath transfers; and reflecting on how equipment can support bathing for the person with handling and postural needs.

Finally, in the Innovation Theatre on 23 November at 13.50 and 24 November at 10.40, Adam wil; 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, the seminar will 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.

Abacus is looking to address how often OTs walk past a stand and think “this company or equipment is expensive so won’t be approved”. The term “expensive” often relates to perception about an initial one-off cost, which does not consider the long-term impact of that spend.

The session will reflect 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 the impact of supporting long-term health and well-being on the care system.

Part of the Gainsborough Healthcare Group, Abacus Specialist Bathroom Solutions is a UK accessible bathing manufacturer, which works closely with OTs, bathers, and families to ensure positive bathing outcomes for all.

The Abacus Academy educational programme is available free to all healthcare professionals seeking support with clinical reasoning when specifying appropriate bathing equipment.

Recently, Abacus Specialist Bathroom Solutions presented a posture and bathing seminar, delivered by Kate Sheehan, OT, as part of its CPD programme for healthcare professionals at Kidz to Adultz Wales and West.

The OT Service provides independent occupational therapy for individuals, case managers, solicitors, insurers, retailers, manufacturers, and businesses.