Introduction
Reid Health, a 223-bed not-for-profit regional referral medical center in Richmond, Indiana, is renowned for its commitment to quality care. 2014 Reid Health became a pioneer by adopting the innovative Hercules Patient Repositioner™ across its hospital system. The decision to standardize this technology significantly improved patient experience and caregiver safety. Here’s how Hercules made a tangible difference in the hospital’s daily operations.
What is the Hercules Patient Repositioner™?
Hercules is a groundbreaking technology that simplifies repositioning patients in bed. Traditionally, moving patients who have slid down in bed required multiple caregivers, often causing discomfort, pain, and even embarrassment for the patients. With Hercules, a single caregiver can reposition a patient with a button, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for patients and staff.
Why Reid Health Chose Hercules
Finding solutions that improve patient experience and staff safety is a priority in the healthcare industry. Reid Health saw Hercules as an opportunity to enhance patient comfort while reducing the physical strain on caregivers. Reid’s Vice President of Continuum Care/Chief Nursing Officer Kay Cartwright selected Hercules.
“meets multiple needs: caregiver efficiency, patient and staff safety, and great improvement in the patient experience.”
Results That Speak for Themselves
After implementing Hercules, Reid Health tracked its effectiveness by comparing key metrics before and after installation. The data collected revealed significant improvements in several areas:
1. Patient Satisfaction Scores Increased
Reid’s patients appreciated the enhanced dignity and comfort provided by Hercules. No longer requiring multiple caregivers to boost them in bed, patients felt more at ease, which was reflected positively in Press Ganey patient satisfaction ratings. Reid’s Director of Quality Assurance, LuAnne Christofaro, noted, “Our patients love that two or three people don’t have to help move them up in their beds.”
2. Caregiver Injuries Dropped by 57%
Before Hercules, caregiver injuries related to patient repositioning were frequent. After the implementation, Reid Health reported a 57% reduction in these injuries. Additionally, restricted activity days due to injuries dropped by an impressive 72%. Since using Hercules, no injuries related to patient repositioning have been reported.
3. Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injuries (HAPIs) Decreased by 79%
One of the most significant clinical improvements was a dramatic reduction in hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs). Reid’s HAPI incidence rate dropped from 6.1% to 1.3% after introducing Hercules—a 79% reduction. This decrease is credited to Hercules’ ability to minimize the friction and shear that typically occurs during traditional repositioning.
A Safer, More Efficient Environment for All
By implementing Hercules, Reid Health enhanced patient care and improved staff working conditions. Cartwright stated, “Deciding to standardize on Hercules was a win-win for everyone involved.” The technology has profoundly impacted staff efficiency, patient comfort, and hospital safety, allowing Reid Health to continue its commitment to providing exceptional care.
Conclusion
The adoption of the Hercules Patient Repositioner™ at Reid Health is a shining example of how innovative technology can lead to meaningful improvements in healthcare. With reductions in caregiver injuries, fewer hospital-acquired pressure injuries, and improved patient satisfaction, Hercules has proven to be a valuable addition to Reid Health’s patient care toolkit.
Contact Morel Company today to learn more about how the Hercules Patient Repositioner™ can transform your hospital environment. Our team is here to help you create a safer, more efficient healthcare experience for patients and caregivers.