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The Occupational Therapy (OT) team at the Mercy University Hospital has welcomed six new high-support therapeutic seats, part funded by the Mercy Foundation, that are already enhancing patient care and recovery.
For patients who are frail or recovering from serious illness, standard seating often doesn’t provide the support they need. These new therapeutic seats are fully adjustable, allowing OTs to tailor seating to each patient. This personalised support can reduce fatigue, improve comfort and help patients take part in everyday activities such as eating, drinking, communicating and therapy.
“Access to the right seating can have a direct impact on a patient’s recovery,” explained Ruth Swanton, Senior OT for Critical Care and Acute Surgery at the Mercy University Hospital. “Patients in the Emergency Department (ED) who are waiting to be admitted, for instance, can be safe and comfortable while they wait.”
The seats are now in use across the Emergency Department, general medical and surgical wards and the St. Francis Transitional Care Unit. They are already supporting a wide range of patients, including those transitioning from ICU, those experiencing shortness of breath and older patients living with frailty.
“We are extremely grateful to the Foundation, as these seats have been an excellent addition to our resources for patients. The variety of seating options now available allows us to better meet our patients’ needs,” said Ruth Swanton. “From improved posture and pressure management to greater comfort and participation in daily activities, these seats make a tangible difference in patients’ quality of life.”
Rachel Stevenson, CEO of the Mercy Foundation added “We are committed to funding projects that directly benefit patients and the staff who care for them. These therapeutic seats are a perfect example of how our donors’ kindness translates into better care and recovery for patients.”
This project has been made possible thanks to the generosity of those who support The Mercy Foundation. Your continued support is helping to improve patient care and outcomes every day.
