Safe movement, healthy recovery at SHN
At Scarborough Health Network (SHN), we are committed to helping patients recover well, maintain their independence, and feel empowered during their hospital stay. That is why we incorporated the End Pyjama Paralysis (EPJP) movement into our patient care best practices.
EPJP is a global movement aimed at reducing the harmful effects of prolonged bedrest and inactivity during hospital stays, commonly referred to as “PJ Paralysis.” The initiative encourages patients to get up, dressed, and moving each day, helping to preserve their strength, dignity, and independence.
At its core, EPJP aims to help patients enter a mindset where they are getting better, which can significantly improve recovery and reduce other health issues caused by prolonged bedrest.
Why Moving is Important
Even one day of immobility can lead to muscle loss, increased fall risk, and delays in recovery, especially in older adults. Simple routines like getting dressed and sitting up for meals can:
- Prevent physical decline
- Improve digestion, lung, and heart function
- Maintain muscle strength and balance
- Reduce the risk of pressure injuries
- Support emotional well-being and reduce feelings of anxiety or confusion
- Reinforce your identity and sense of control
How to End PJ Paralysis
Stay engaged in your care and recovery by asking your care team how to safely move. Here are some simple methods you can practice:
- Get dressed in personal clothes daily. Put on at least one item of your own clothing (t-shirt, pants, cardigan) instead of staying in hospital gowns or pajamas. Caretakers and loved ones can bring your clothes from home.
- Sit upright in a chair for meals to improve digestion and appetite.
- Sit upright in bed when possible. If unable to get out of bed, sit up supported by pillows or hospital bed adjustments to improve lung function and reduce risks of complications.
- Transfer safely out of bed. With help from staff if needed, move from the bed to a chair or wheelchair.
- Walk short distances like to the bathroom, down the hallway, or within the room. Start with small steps and gradually increase distance.
- Participate in hygiene and dressing routines. If needed, ask a staff member for help with brushing teeth, washing face, and getting dressed to encourage normal daily habits.
- Use repositioning as movement. Change positions in bed every 2 hours with assistance to reduce pressure injuries and improve blood circulation.
Hear from Our Staff and Patients
Hear more about the positive impact EPJP has made at SHN from our patients and staff:
A Patient and Family Voice
My involvement in the End PJ Paralysis initiative at SHN has been a wonderful experience. I’ve witnessed how much the staff cares about the patients and their well-being. As a representative for the patients and families, the team welcomed my thoughts and questions through the entire process as we all worked together to institute a plan to help patients get up, dressed, moving, better, and home. Getting out of bed and dressed during their hospital stay gives the patient an active role in their recovery and restores a feeling of independence. Everyone feels better at home, and this program helps patients achieve this.”
– Michele Robinson, Patient Family Advisor
The Impact of End PJ Paralysis at SHN
Learn more about SHN’s measures to train staff and patients in the processes and benefits of End PJ Paralysis.