Portiuncula University Hospital launches ‘End PJ paralysis’ campaign

For the next 10 weeks (until 10 May) there will be a special focus on getting patients, who are well enough, to get out of bed, get dressed and get moving. Patients are being encouraged, where possible, to get out of bed during the day as they would at home.

Being mobile helps patients recover more quickly from illness and injury. Research has shown that 10 days in bed can lead to 10 years of aging in the muscles of people over the age of 80. At any age, muscles lose strength by being in bed for longer than needed.

All patients are being provided with a “Get Active Booklet” which includes information on the importance of remaining active and includes helpful tips and exercises that can be done while in hospital.

In addition, the Physiotherapy and Occupation Therapy Departments are organising a daily active hour from 2-3pm around different themes such as Balance and Bone Health, Breathing and Brain Training.

Patients are advised when packing for a hospital stay to include loose comfortable clothing to change into during the day and good fitting non-slip shoes.

From 05 March to 10 May, the following daily events will take place in the hospital from 2 to 3pm.

Mondays: Physiotherapy Department - Breathing

Tuesdays: Physiotherapy Department - Healthy Bladder and Bowel

Wednesdays: Physiotherapy Department - Balance and Bone Health

Thursdays: Occupational Therapy Department - Brain Training

Thursdays: Front Reception - Tackling Frailty Thursday

Fridays: Physiotherapy Department - Fit 4 Friday

Photo Caption:

Staff at Portiuncula University Hospital wearing their PJs to kick start a 70 day campaign to encourage patients to get up, get dressed and get active #endPJparalysis