Gus Reyna, CSPHA
The Certified Safe Patient Handling Associate (CSPHA) is one of three types of SPHM certification offered by the Certified Safe Patient Handling Professionals™. This entry-level certification is for SPHM specialists who have acquired sufficient field experience and knowledge to support training, education and the ability to assist leadership in sustainable SPHM programming. Experience and knowledge is verified by the Certification Committee through documentation of related work experience and education. The CSPHA instructs others in the correct use of SPHM protocols and technology within the assigned healthcare environment. Once certified, CSPHAs are required to complete 10 professional development hours (PDH) related to SPHM every three years; this may include training in the use of SPHM technology, skills for training others, or additional topics that would promote SPHM.
How long have you been in healthcare and in what capacity?
I started in 1994 as a Medical Assistant working for an Orthopedic Surgeon in South Texas for 6 years. Following that, I moved to Phoenix and worked with Banner for 16 years as an Orthopedic Tech, Patient Advocate, SPHM Coordinator, and finally, an Injury Prevention Specialist. Now, I live in Houston working with the great team at Wy’East Medical as a Clinical Consultant.
What makes you vested in SPHM?
Working in any healthcare position is very rewarding, but hard work. With the technology that exists today, we should not be seeing the type of preventable injuries our friends and family are experiencing. My superpower is SPHM knowledge; and I feel it’s my duty to help as many people as I can by teaching them to be as safe as possible, not only for themselves, but for their families.
As an SPHM Instructor, how do you keep your audience engaged?
Knowing your audience is key. You want to make sure you are teaching relevant information based on who you are engaging with. Instruction varies and is dependent upon if you are talking to the C-suite, clinical leadership, or bedside staff. Most importantly, MAKE IT FUN AND HAVE FUN!
Can you share one story where you know SPHM made a difference?
A post open-heart surgery patient was afraid of his first walk. However, his fear was not related to injuring himself upon falling, but rather, that he was afraid of hurting his nurse if he fell. To eliminate his fear, I showed him and his nurse how to use a floor-based lift in conjunction with a walking sling for ambulation. After a couple of skeptical looks, he got up, and his confidence level went through the roof! He immediately bolted out of his room and started doing laps around the nurse’s station! The nurses had to advise him to take a break, fearing he would tire himself out too fast. The next day, his nurse told me he slept like a baby that night and looked forward to his walks.
What inspired you to become a ASPHP Member?
For me, becoming an ASPHP member means being a part of a worthwhile community that cares about people. I am a Certified Safe Patient Handling Associate, and this has given me confidence in my skills. It supports my professionalism as a SPHM educator. My hope is to expand my knowledge, while being able to help this great family with my experience. I am excited about this opportunity!
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