Patient/caregiver was educated on fall safety and precautions for gouty arthritis patients as follows:
- Individuals with the facility of only a bathtub can have a tub transfer bench installed in the bathtub. A tub transfer bench extends over the bathtub, with part of the bench outside and part of the bench inside the bathtub. While entering the bathtub, individuals can walk up to the edge of transfer bench outside the bathtub, leave their assistive device there, sit on the bench, slightly turn towards to edge of the bathtub, slowly raise the legs one after the other over the edge of the bathtub to bring them into the bathtub, slide over the bench to enter the bathtub, and remain seated on the bench inside the bathtub during the shower. While getting out of the bathtub, individuals can remain seated on the bench inside the bathtub, slightly turn towards to edge of the bathtub, slowly raise the legs one after the other over the edge of the bathtub to bring them out of the bathtub and slide over the bench to get out of the bathtub. Make sure you have your assistive device located close to the tub transfer bench for an easy transition.
- Have handrails installed inside the shower and by the side of toilet for additional support, as needed. Have the handrails inspected periodically for their secure fixation, which can also contribute to fall prevention.
- During episodes of exacerbation of arthritis involving the weightbearing joints of lower extremities and back, it can be difficult for the individual to bend down and reach the legs and lower portions of the body. Doing so, can contribute to compromised balance, resulting in a fall. Seek caregiver assistance, as needed, especially for cleaning portions of the body difficult to reach. Use of a long-handled bath sponge can help clean the legs, lower body, and other parts difficult to reach, thus avoiding the stress of bending down and fall risk.
- Use of a handheld water hose can help avoid the stress of turning your back inside the shower to the stream of water. Handheld water hose can help easy rinsing of back and other difficult to reach areas of the body, while seated on the shower bench. Having an extension to the water hose, as needed, can add more comfort.
