Study Modules > Module II: Bathing/TransferII. BathingC. Bath Devices2. Grab barsFor care recipients that can stand during the transfers, grab bars should be installed in the tub/shower and toilet areas. They will provide a secure place for the care recipient to grasp during transfers instead of holding onto walls or towel bars. The grab bar's gripping surface should be between 1-1/4" to 2" in diameter. For persons with small hands, use the 1-1/4" diameter. When installing a wall mounted grab bar, particularly those that are installed horizontally, they should have no more than a distance of 1-1/2" clearance between the bar and the wall. A grab bar with a greater wall clearance (>1-1/2") will allow a person's arm to become wedged between the bar and wall, if a fall occurs. As a result, the individual can sustain a shoulder fracture or dislocation, upper extremity fracture and bruising. It is also important to remember that any smaller distance than 1-1/2" clearance may not provide enough room to accommodate for the fingers and knuckles to grasp bar. (Need filming here) Grab bars come in various lengths, textures, designs, shapes and colors. They are made from stainless steel, aluminum, and materials. The most commonly used grab bars may be in 18", 24", or 36" lengths. Single grab bars can be installed in horizontal, vertical or angled positions. Some are specially designed into a right or left angle or spiral shapes. The angled grab bars can be used as both, a vertical and horizontal bar. Portable grab bars are those that are mounted on the tub's edge by a clamping mechanism. Some are made from a stainless steel or plastic material. By turning clockwise, a knob located on the outside of the clamping mechanism will tighten the clamp against the tub's edge. A word of caution when using portable grab bars: portable grab bars are not recommended for use on fiberglass tubs unless the tub's outer wall has been reinforced; otherwise, the tub sides will crack under the clamping mechanism's tightening pressure. Installation of a wall mounted grab bar should be sturdy enough to hold up to 250 pounds, for a minimum of five minutes. The bars should be securely mounted directly into the wall studs, and not to sheetrock or drywall. In most cases, the grab bar will come with hardware (wall-anchors, molly bolts, and screws) as part of the installation kit. Sheetrock and drywall does not allow safe installation of the bars. A new wall anchor called the "wingit" can be used for mounting grab bars onto various wall materials particularly onto fiberglass tub surrounds. In some cases, the walls may need to be reinforced before a grab bar can be mounted. Wall anchors spread the force of pressure over a larger area.
A word of caution: grab bars are indicated if the person has a tendency to lean on towel bars, sinks, wall soap dishes and taps for support to enter and exit the tub. These items may not support body weight if leaned upon them. Therefore, should avoid using these items. Towel bars and soap dishes are usually mounted onto the wall with grouting material. Wall mounted sink basins, can pull away from the wall and taps can come off into the person's hand when leaned upon. [ previous section | back to top | next section ] |
Where is the best place on the wall to install the grab bar? It is important to notice where the care recipient grabs naturally onto the wall for support when transferring. This will indicate where the bar should be mounted. They should be placed where they are most convenient for the care recipient.