One sit-to-stand at a time

Donor-funded equipment gives patients the confidence to stand again

We know every child’s journey to recovery presents unique challenges, especially when facing neurological injuries or prolonged hospitalization. In our Transitional Care Unit (TCU) and Rehabilitation Care Unit (RCU), we see an average of 100 patients annually who arrive with compromised mobility, requiring specialized attention and support. This is where the introduction of the Sara Stedy device emerges as a game-changer. It helps foster mobility, confidence and independence among our young patients.

One of the critical challenges faced by our staff is transferring our patients from sitting to standing in a safe and effective manner.

“Our patient population is evolving,” said Kendra Stubbs, PT, DPT, CPST, Inpatient Rehab manager. “Individuals are becoming older and, therefore, larger, which increases the risk of injury to patients and staff. The Sara Stedy provides a stable and safe way for our therapy and nursing staff to transfer patients.”

The Sara Stedy device encourages active patient participation in rehabilitation activities. This promotes early mobilization and potentially hastens recovery by engaging patients in sit-to-stand transfers. With our average length of stay in the TCU/RCU ranging from three to eight weeks, expediting mobility improvements can reduce overall hospitalization durations. That is a definite benefit for patients and their families.

Until recently, Cook Children’s had access to only one Sara Stedy device. It’s stored in a general equipment area and its use has to be requested. Thanks to Blue Giving Circle funding, staff recently purchased an additional Sara Stedy device solely for the TCU/RCU and it’s already making a big impact on our patients.

“I introduced this to a very nervous patient who was reluctant to work on her standing,” said Lindsay Sikes, PT, MSPT, CPST. “The Sara Stedy gave her the positioning she needed and a sense of control, and allowed her to explore standing in a safe way. She used the arm bars to work on her sit-to-stands. She was happy and comfortable, which transformed her entire outlook on standing.”

This piece of equipment, made possible by the generosity of our donors, helps our staff advance our medical care.

“Every Blue Peaks Giving Circle grant, no matter the amount, has the power to light up a child’s world with hope and healing,” says Lauren Tevis, Blue Peaks Giving Circle founder and member. “Our focus is on improving the health of children in our communities through collaborative giving. We are thrilled to hear how one of our most recent grants is already making a difference for our patients.”

By integrating innovative equipment like the Sara Stedy device, we strive to transform the pediatric transitional and rehabilitation care landscape. Each day, we witness the profound impact of enhanced mobility on our young patients as they regain strength and confidence, one step at a time. Together, we embark on a journey toward brighter, more fulfilling futures for every child under our care.

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