Restoring Confidence in Mobility

The hierarchy of mobility skills, increasing in independence, are as follows: bed mobility, mat transfer, wheelchair transfer, bed transfer, functional ambulation for ADL, toilet and tub transfer, car transfer, functional ambulation for community mobility, and community mobility and driving. 

    After initially reading the hierarchy, I did not expect there to be this many skills. The list is much longer than I expected. I believe the hierarchy is in this particular order because it builds upon the skills of the level below. Once the patient can successfully complete one level of the hierarchy then they will move on to the next level. For example, after successfully completing a toilet or tub transfer the patient would then move onto a car transfer. Each skill is more complex than the preceding one. After rereading the skills, I believe I have observed this in some of my shadowing prior to OT school. I do agree with this methodology for moving onto more complex tasks and skills. If a patient can complete a toilet or tub transfer they should move on to a car transfer to increase their independence and active participation in their ADLs. I believe this hierarchy is formatted in such a way that the patient will increase their independence and promote self sufficiency.

    After reflecting on what we have learned in labs and simulations, I believe we have been taught the most efficient ways to perform transfers and mobility. We will use these skills everyday at our jobs and I look forward to putting them to work. I am thankful for our simulation experiences and the resources UTHSC provides to enhance our education. We have used wheelchairs, hospital beds, Hoyer lifts, and many more tools to hone in our skills as future therapists.