MAO Manual

transportation. On the other hand, patients with mild mental disabilities may have episodes of combativeness. It’s important to realize that intelligence and understanding are not always diminished by handicaps. In other words, the patient may not be able to communicate, but may be able to understand what you say and what is going on around him or her. Examples of mental disabilities - Down’s Syndrome - Alzheimer’s Disease - Stroke Sensory Disabilities Patients with sensory disabilities have some inability to interact with their surroundings because of their deficit. They may not be able to see, hear, or speak. In some cases, especially if the sensory problem is his/her only disability, these patients may be very independent and need only minimal assistance. In some cases, only alternate communication is required. More verbal communication for blind patients, better positioning of your body when you speak to a deaf patient so they can read your lips, etc. Examples of sensory disabilities

manage the transport. Permanent Disabilities

Patients with permanent disabilities are often knowledgeable about their conditions due to the fact that they have been living with it for so long. These patients, when sound of mind, are often ‘experts’ on their own disability, and may be helpful resources during a transport. They may be able to suggest good ways of lifting them, what the best door to use to get in or out of their house is, or provide some other Patients with temporary disabilities may have little experience with their conditions. They may be frustrated with their temporary lack of mobility and be prone to taking risks because of it. They may also lack expertise in using assistive devices, or be tempted to not use them when they should. These patterns can cause an increase in the chance of injury. MAVO’s must use good judgement and close supervision to insure that the patient is not harmed during the trip. Assistive Devices Patients who have disabilities of various types may have assitive devices to help them through their day-to-day activities. You will need to be familiar with these assistive devices so that you can effectively assist patients during transports. helpful advice for the trip. Temporary Disabilities

- Blind - Deaf - Mute Length of Disability

Canes Canes are designed to provide support to the paitent. Most patients with canes use them as a “third leg” to improve balance. Others might use a cane to lessen the weight he or she is bearing on that side. A patient will use the cane on their weaker side – you should position yourself on the side with the cane so that you can prevent a fall if the patient begins to falter.

Disabilities can be permanent or temporary, based on patient age, the type and length of injury. For example, a patient with a broken hip may find him or herself unable to bear weight to walk for a few weeks, while someone with a stroke may be unable to move his or her left side permanently. Both these patients will behave differently and pose their own challenges during the transport. A wise MAVO will be aware of how a patient’s disability may affect how their behave during transportation so that he or she can better