Patient lifts are helpful tools when it comes to lifting someone from one place to the next. They can be especially helpful for wheelchair users who need help getting in and out of their chair to go in the car, into bed and more.
They can be especially useful for caregivers who may not be able to lift their patients, and can provide more independence to the patient themselves. Devices like these can be life changing for people who may need that extra hand.
What is a patient lift?
A patient lift is a device designed to safely move individuals with limited mobility from one place to another. For example, from a bed to a wheelchair, a chair to a toilet, or even into a bathtub or pool.
It uses a sling, seat, or harness to support the patient’s weight and allows the caregiver to operate it with ease, reducing physical strain and minimizing the risk of injury for both parties.
Patient lifts are often used in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and home care environments. They are ideal for anyone who has difficulty standing, walking, or transferring independently.
Why Use a Patient Lift?
- Safety- Reduces the risk of falls and accidents during transfers.
- Ease for Caregivers- Minimizes the need for heavy lifting or awkward positioning.
- Comfort for Patients- Provides smooth, gentle transfers without discomfort.
- Independence- Many patients can operate powered lifts with minimal help, fostering confidence and freedom.
- Versatility- Can be used in bedrooms, bathrooms, or anywhere assistance is needed.
Kinds of lifts
The two most basic kinds of patient lift devices are sling lifts and sit-to-stand lifts.
Both of those lifts also have the option to be electric or manual, which both offer different levels of convenience for the patient and the caregiver.
Manual lifts are powered through hydraulic power, such as air pumps, generally less expensive and a great option for places without convenient power sources.
Electronic lifts require no manual labor for caregivers, are generally more expensive and powered through rechargeable batteries or power outlet
There are two different kinds of sling lifts: Floor lifts and ceiling lifts. Floor lifts have a wheeled base and require extra space around beds. Ceiling ones are most often found in hospitals and nursing homes and are supported by tracks on the ceiling, using an electric motor to lift and lower the patient.
Sit-to-stand lifts use a series of belts or straps positioned around the upper body to help them rise safely and slowly without a caregiver’s help rather than using a sling. These kinds of lifts are particularly valuable in the rehabilitation process as it encourages patients to bear more of their own body weight.
Other types of lifts include:
- Bath lifts: make bathtubs more accessible for patients that are unable to raise themselves in and out, but also have a hard time showering. These are inflatable and neatly fold away for next use.
- Pillow lifts: Patients who spend a lot of time in bed benefit from using these air-filled devices that help people adjust their position in bed with the press of a button.
- Emergency inflatable lifts: Getting up from the floor in the event of a fall can be distressing on the patient and the caregiver, making these lifts a great device to carry with you at all times. These are simple and great for emergencies.
Factors to consider when choosing a lift
Once you’ve decided that a lift would be a valuable tool for your patient and caregiver, it’s time to choose which one is best for you. Some things to take into consideration are:
- Weight capacity and adjustability
- Choosing a lift that can comfortably support the patient’s weight is crucial because overloading a lift can lead to injury. Making sure that a lift is adjustable will make sure that the device is not only more comfortable for the user, but also can fit in their bedroom or other space.
- Safety features and maintenance
- Features such as emergency stop buttons, manual lowering mechanisms and safety belts help prevent accidents and ensure the patient’s safety. Regular maintenance checks help make sure that the lift is working properly and providing the best results.
FDA best practices for operating a lift
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has a list of best practices that can help mitigate risks associated with patient lifts. Some of those include:
- Receiving training to understand how to operate the lift
- Matching the sling to the weight of the patient
- Keeping all clips, latches and hanger bars securely fastened
- Keeping the base stable
- Locking wheels of the device
- Regular maintenance
By following these steps, using a patient lift will pose less of a safety risk to the patient and the caregiver, taking added stress off of their experience and allowing for more independence.
Looking for a lift that fits your needs? Visit us here to explore our collection of patient lifts. Your comfort and safety matter most.
Restoring Comfort and Independence
At the end of the day, patient lifts are more than just medical equipment. They are life-changing tools that restore independence, confidence, and dignity. They give caregivers the peace of mind that their loved one or patient is safe, and allow patients to move with freedom and comfort.
If you or someone you care for could benefit from a patient lift, call or visit On The Mend today. Our friendly team will guide you in choosing the right equipment and help you stay safe, mobile, and independent.
Because at On The Mend, you’ve got a friend.
