A case study from Queen Victoria Memorial Hospital in UK
Improving plus-size patient handling
Queen Victoria Memorial (QVM) Hospital in Hertfordshire, UK, has been the designated rehabilitation unit for plus-size patients since 2018. Following a major redesign in 2021 to improve accessibility and safety, the hospital faced a surge in staff injuries during complex handling tasks. In 2024, with capacity increased to six plus-size beds, QVM launched a collaborative project to identify safer, more efficient solutions. This initiative included root cause analysis, equipment trials, and staff training, ultimately leading to the adoption of the HoverTech Q2 Roller by Etac, a device that significantly improved patient independence, reduced handling time, and eliminated staff injuries during the trial period.
The challenge
Staff at QVM reported multiple injuries while assisting plus-size patients with repositioning, pad changes, and transfers to sit on the edge of the bed. Traditional equipment and staffing levels proved insufficient, particularly for patients with limited shoulder mobility.
The solution
After evaluating several options, the Q2 Roller by Etac was selected for trial. This innovative device supports patient independence and reduces the physical strain on staff during handling tasks.
Key outcomes
- Repositioning time reduced from an average of 15.9 minutes to 7.8 minutes.
- Staffing costs per task dropped by over 60%.
- Sit-on-edge-of-bed (SOEOB) transfers improved dramatically, with time reduced from 36 minutes to 4.1 minutes.
- No staff injuries were reported during the trial period.
- Positive feedback from both patients and staff highlighted improved comfort, independence, and ease of use.
Conclusion
The Q2 Roller significantly improved plus‑size patient handling at QVM Hospital, with marked reductions in task times for repositioning and sit‑on‑edge‑of‑bed transfers, and no staff injuries reported during the trial. Patient and staff feedback was positive, noting increased comfort, independence, and reduced physical strain. In line with these outcomes and the report’s recommendations, QVM proposes continued use of the Q2 Roller within the unit.
Q2Roller® Lateral Turning Device
The Q2Roller is a comfortable turning aid
that makes repositioning in bed safe and
easy for both users and caregivers.
that makes repositioning in bed safe and
easy for both users and caregivers.