Introduction
Learn about moving, handling and dignity in the NHS with hosts Jasprit and Victor as they talk to Paul Featherby-Davis, a nurse of 23 years who now leads moving & handling and core-risk medical device education at The Dudley Group. Paul shares how evidence-based training improves safety for patients and staff. From portable oxygen and infusion pumps to syringe drivers and suction, while supporting colleagues back into work after injury or illness.
Through real cases, Paul shows the impact of getting care right. An end-of-life, plus-size patient received dignified support at home without needing extra medication, preserving precious family time. A man with Parkinson’s, previously turned away twice, completed an ophthalmology procedure in 15 minutes after timed medication and the correct transfer aid.
We discuss common challenges (service pressure, cancellations, device errors) and why the response should be learning, not blame. Paul’s own 2019 experience of being under-dosed after his weight wasn’t recorded now fuels projects that benefit everyone: weighing all inpatients within four hours of arrival (with weigh bridges, bed/hoist scales, and standard deductions for mattresses/linen), tiered handling programmes for acute vs. outpatient teams, respectful language and school outreach around “plus-size,” and new training for medical students and junior doctors.
Key takeaway
Mobilisation is everyone’s job. Early movement prevents de-conditioning, protects dignity, and shortens stays. Paul also serves as a trustee with the National Back Exchange, bringing ergonomics and biomechanics research into everyday practice.
If you’re NHS staff or simply curious about the people behind the service, this episode is for you.
Visit our LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/rightchamber
Our RSS Feed: https://www.rguc.co.uk/feed/podcast/the-right-chamber-what-makes-a-hospital-a-hospital/
#WorkforceDevelopment #MedicalEducation #NursingEducation #MovingAndHandling #ManualHandling #MedicalDevices #ClinicalTraining #HealthcareLeadership #EveryDayIsASchoolDay
——————
Produced by the RGUC Digital Media Team – https://iclinical.co.uk/digital-media-links
Music credit: Kalte Ohren (septahelix remix) by septahelix (c) copyright 2019 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. https://dig.ccmixter.org/files/septah… Ft: starfrosch
