How We Use QR Codes in Client Care

At Improve Your Move OT, we are always looking for practical ways to improve education, safety, and consistency of care for our clients and their support teams. One tool we are increasingly using is QR codes.

QR codes are simple scannable codes that can be read using a smartphone camera. When scanned, they instantly open a webpage, document, form, or video, providing quick access to important information without the need to search, log in, or remember links.

Information and Equipment Support

One of our most common uses is creating laminated QR code tags that are attached to:

• Mobility aids (wheelchairs and scooters)

• Hoists and transfer devices

• Rehabilitation equipment (e.g. standing frames)

• New equipment

• Client walls or care areas for routines and programs

When scanned, these tags may link to:

• Short videos of the therapist demonstrating how to use the equipment safely

• Demonstrations of setting up or dismantling equipment for transport

• Step-by-step written instructions for care routines or exercise programs

• Key equipment details, including:

  • Tyre and tube size

  • Battery type

  • Service and review dates

• Important emergency information, including contact numbers and breakdown services

This allows any carer, family member, or support worker to instantly access the correct information at the point of care.

Care Logs and Data Collection

QR codes can also link directly to digital forms, such as Google Forms, allowing carers to quickly record:

• Toileting and continence logs

• Skin checks

• Equipment use

• Positioning routines

• Fluid or swelling monitoring

This supports accurate record keeping, easy sharing of information with therapists and nurses, and reduced paperwork.

How This Benefits Our Clients

We find that using QR codes helps to improve safety and reduce errors, increase consistency across care teams, support the confidence of care workers, save time and reduce paperwork and ensure important information is always accessible.

If you or someone you support would benefit from QR code equipment tags, training resources, home program access, or digital care logs, our team would be happy to help design a system tailored to your needs.

Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not replace individual assessment or professional advice. Systems and supports should be tailored to each person and care environment. If you would like individualised support, please speak with an Occupational Therapist.