Although the care required is minimal, users of canes and crutches need to be alert to circumstances that pose a safety threat such as the COVID 19 crisis.
Indication of Frequency
Cleaning and maintenance should be performed as needed on canes and crutches at least twice daily. The assembling manufacturer’s instructions should be followed if they are available.
Basic Procedures
Cleaning will require the following tools and supplies:
• Alcohol – based sanitizer or anti-bacterial wipes
• Clean clothing or disposable wipes
• Warm water
• Mild detergent
The person cleaning and sanitizing the mobility devices should follow the handwashing hygiene instructions before and after cleaning, and may wear disposable gloves to minimize the risk of infection because coronavirus microorganisms are capable of surviving on solid surfaces for 9 hours.
Dust and dirt should be brushed or wiped from the walking cane / crutches with a cloth or disposable wipes. While cleaning, one should pay attention to broken bits, nicks and scratches. Scratches or dents that are sharp may catch on objects and cause damage, or may scratch the user.
All disinfecting should be done in a designated area that restricts the exposure of others. The person performing the cleaning procedures may wish to wear a mask to avoid inhaling particulate from cleaning or odours from the cleaning chemicals.
To clean metal frames, a solution of mild detergent should be mixed in water. A cloth should be dampened and the water wrung from it. The metal frame and any metal attachments should be wiped. All surfaces should be wiped thoroughly.
After wiping, the objects should be allowed to air dry completely (at least 10 minutes) before permitting anything to come into contact with the sanitized surfaces. Remember:
· If the rubber tips have gotten very dirty, they should be removed and washed in soapy water, then dried carefully with a cloth before being fixed back on the cane or crutch. It is important to check for any damages on the rubber tips at the bottom of the cane or crutch.
· If the rubber tips have serious splits or damage, they may require replacement. The handles should be checked to ensure that they are not loose or broken. A loose handle is a serious risk to stability.
· If the cane or crutch is extendable, one should ensure that all snap buttons release and re-engage properly.
By Mwavuna Kazungu