Transfers lifts are a mechanical device that is designed to lift patients safely. There are a variety of transfer lifts, but most of them work similarly. Before using the device, always familiarize yourself with the specific lift and practice with empty slings and fully mobile volunteers before using it to transfer patients. In general, here’s how transfer lifts work.
1. Position the Sling
How you position the sling will depend on if you are transferring a patient who is lying down or sitting up. If you are transferring a patient who is lying down, you will position the sling by having the patient raise the leg closest to you and placing their foot flat on the bed. Afterward, you will roll the patient to the side, facing away from you. Lastly, you will place the half-folded sling lengthwise onto the bed, next to the user, and gently roll them back onto it.
If you are positioning a sling onto a person that is sitting up, you will first place it behind their back. Then, you will shimmy the sling behind the user until the fabric cover’s the person’s hips.
2. Lock the Lift Into Position
Next, you will bring the lift to the chair or bed, position it, and lock it into place. The appropriate position for the transfer lift will depend on how the patient is situated. The boom should always be directly over the patient, and the wheels of the transfer lift should be locked into position.
3. Hook the Loops
The sling should then be connected to the lift. Hook the loops on the sides of the u-sling to the cradle. Cross the leg loops under the patient’s legs and make sure the left loop reaches across to hook to the right hook and vice versa. Then, hook the flap for neck support if the user finds it difficult to hold their head up on their own. Leave the flap unhooked if the user can support their head.
4. Lift and Transfer
Once the patient is safely hooked into place, slowly lift the sling, unlock the wheels, and roll the lift to the patient’s new destination. You may need to adjust the width of the legs as you go. Additionally, always make sure the patient is facing the person moving the transfer lift.
5. Lock and Lower the User
Once the patient reaches their new destination, the transfer lift operator locks the wheels into place and carefully lowers the user to their new bed or seat. When lowering, always use the pump lever for manual lifts of the electronic controls for powered lifts. Make sure the user is comfortable.
6. Remove the Sling
Once the user is safely and comfortably situated, remove the sling by tugging it gently. If the user is sitting up, you can tug the sling upward. If the user is lying down, you can gently roll them to one side, fold the sling, then roll the user to the other side to remove the sling.
Offering Quality Maryland Transfer Lifts
Freedom Mobility offers a wide variety of transfer lifts. Not only do these devices make caregiving easier, but they also help protect the user from injuries. Contact us now to schedule an appointment to visit our Hanover, MD showroom and take a look at all of our transfer lift options.