Different Types of Lift Aids

Properly using lift aids can improve both your safety and the patient’s safety during transfers. There are several types of lift aids, and it is essential to know when and how to use them correctly.

Two Main Operations of Lifts

Lift aids can generally be classified into two main categories: power lifts and manual lifts. Power lifts use electricity, usually from a rechargeable battery or an outlet. Manual lifts do not use an electrical power source but use other mechanical functions, like hydraulics.

Basic Sling Lift Components

A common type of lift is the sling lift. This can help transfer patients who have limited mobility or are paralyzed. In general, sling lifts provide a mechanism to move a patient into an upright, seated position while their back is supported.

Sling lift designs vary by manufacturer, but basic components of a floor-based, full-body model often include the following parts:

• The mast is a bar that is connected to the base, and it rises vertically.
• The boom is an angled bar at the top of the lift that extends over the patient.
• The spreader bar, or sling bar, is often bow-shaped, and it hangs from the boom.
• The sling supports the patient and is attached to the spreader bar.
• Various clips and latches secure the sling.

Different Types of Sling Lifts

There are several types of sling lifts, and they have variable setups, uses and ways to operate them.

• Floor-based sling lifts have castor wheels that allow the device to be movable.
• Foldable portable lifts are a type of floor-based lift that is relatively light and can be folded and transported or stored.
• Sit-to-stand lifts are floor-based lifts that can be used to assist patients who have difficulty moving from a seated position to a full or partial standing position.
• Fixed ceiling lifts have a lift unit mounted on a track system that is permanently attached to the ceiling.
• Portable ceiling lifts have a lift unit that can be moved. They may also have portable track systems that can be packed, transported and set up in another room.
• Bariatric patient lifts have higher weight capacities.
• Pool lifts gently lower or lift patients into and out of tubs or pools.

How to Use Sling Lifts

It is essential to review the manufacturer’s instructions prior to using a specific lift to operate it correctly and safely.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has also compiled a list of best practices to help mitigate the risks associated with using lifts. As operators of patient sling lifts, you should follow these procedures:

• Do not use a lift for which you have not received training for.
• Understand how to operate these lifts.
• Always communicate with the patient about what will happen before any lifting occurs.
• Match the sling to the specific lift and the patient’s size, weight and hip measurement. The patient lift manufacturer must approve the sling for a specific lift, as no sling is universally compatible across lifts.
• Inspect the sling fabric and straps to ensure they are not frayed or stressed at the seams or damaged in other ways. If there are signs of wear, do not use the sling.
• Keep all clips, latches and hanger bars securely fastened while operating the lift.
• Keep the patient lift’s base in the maximum open position and situate the lift to provide stability.
• Safely position the patient’s arms inside the sling straps.
• Ensure the patient is not restless or agitated.
• Lock the wheels on any device that will receive a patient, such as a wheelchair, stretcher, bed or chair.
• Ensure the weight limitations for the lift and sling are not exceeded.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and maintaining the sling.
• Always fill out the maintenance safety inspection checklist prior to using the lift. This can help with the detection of worn or damaged parts that need immediate replacement.

You should also check the patient’s physical capabilities, medical condition and mental status prior to using a patient lift and ensure the environment and equipment are prepared for its use. Remember, more than one person may be needed to operate a lift safely.

Other Types of Lift Aids

Not all lift aids use slings. For example, some sit-to-stand lifts may use belts and straps to ensure patients are safely secured. No matter the type of device, proper use is essential to reduce the risk of injury to yourself and to patients. Additionally, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on cleaning and sanitizing the lift and its components.

Working safely is everyone’s responsibility. If you have any questions about lifts or other safety matters, do not hesitate to ask your supervisor.

This Safety Matters flyer is for general informational purposes only, and is not intended as medical or legal advice. © 2023 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.