{"id":28223,"date":"2017-07-10T15:46:12","date_gmt":"2017-07-10T19:46:12","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/?p=28223"},"modified":"2025-10-07T22:40:29","modified_gmt":"2025-10-08T02:40:29","slug":"safe-patient-lift-hoyer-lift","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/safe-patient-lift-hoyer-lift\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Safely Lift a Patient into a Patient Lift\/Hoyer Lift"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Lifting and moving patients either in a healthcare institution or at home can be dangerous task, as doing so improperly can injure the patient or damage the lift.\u00a0The FDA has a comprehensive download that breaks down the ways to lift patients safely in this colorful handout; but we&#8217;ve compiled the information from that handout below:<\/p>\n<h2>1. Caregiver Safety Tips<\/h2>\n<p>Use lifts for these activities to avoid sustaining a back injury:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Lifting from floor<\/li>\n<li>Bed-chair transfer<\/li>\n<li>Lateral transfer<\/li>\n<li>Lifting limbs<\/li>\n<li>Toileting\/bathing<\/li>\n<li>Repositioning<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Do NOT push, pul or lift while:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Off balance or leaning forward<\/li>\n<li>Twisting and\/or reaching<\/li>\n<li>Entrapped in a confined space<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Tip: Work as close to the patient as possible to avoid stress of leaning.<\/em><\/p>\n<h2>2. Know Your Lift<\/h2>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-28224 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/hoyer-lift.jpg\" alt=\"patient lift\" width=\"479\" height=\"448\" \/>\n<p>Tip: \u00a0knowing the lift and how to use it correctly can prevent patient falls from lifts- which may cause injuries, including head trauma, fractures and death.<\/p>\n<h2>3. Before Using a Lift, Check the Patient&#8217;s Condition<\/h2>\n<p>Before using a patient lift, check:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Patient\u2019s physical capabilities<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Check to see if patient can assist with transfer.<\/li>\n<li>Check patient\u2019s weight and physical condition; use manufacturer&#8217;s guidelines to make sure lift is appropriate.<\/li>\n<li>Determine how many caregivers are required to safely lift the patient.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Patient\u2019s medical condition<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Make sure you have correct lift and sling for patient\u2019s condition.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure the lift will not make the patient\u2019s condition worse.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Patient\u2019s mental status<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>If alert, ensure patient is able to understand and follow instructions.<\/li>\n<li>Make sure patient is ready to be placed in a lift.<\/li>\n<li>The use of a patient lift should be avoided if the patient is agitated, resistant or combative.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>4. Selecting a Patient&#8217;s Sling\u00a0Size<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li>Assess patient\u2019s size, weight and hip measurement.<\/li>\n<li>Choose size of sling based on manufacturer recommendation for patient\u2019s measurements. Choosing correct sling size is critical for safe patient transfer.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>SLING TOO LARGE:<\/strong> Patient may slip out.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>SLING TOO SMALL:<\/strong> Patient may fall out. Sling may worsen patient\u2019s condition.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>IF BETWEEN SIZES:<\/strong> Smaller size may keep patient more secure.<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\">5. Choose Sling and Sling Bar<\/h2>\n<p>To increase patient safety, use the correct type and size of sling for your patient. Select sling and sling bar based on manufacturer recommendations for the following criteria:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Type of transfer task<\/li>\n<li>Patient\u2019s medical condition<\/li>\n<li>Patient\u2019s size and weight<\/li>\n<li>Pressure sensitivity Sling Bars<\/li>\n<li>Use a sling bar that is appropriate for the patient\u2019s size.<\/li>\n<li>Choose sling bar\/sling combination that will place patient at a safe angle.<\/li>\n<li>Only use sling with correct clip or loop attachment type for the sling bar.<\/li>\n<li>Need for full back support<\/li>\n<li>Need for head support<\/li>\n<li>Need for padding<\/li>\n<li>Patient\u2019s preferred or medi<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Some medical conditions such as stroke, orthopedic conditions, amputations or certain wounds may affect sling choice.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Sling Bars<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use a sling bar that is appropriate for the patient\u2019s size.<\/li>\n<li>Choose sling bar\/sling combination that will place patient at a safe angle.<\/li>\n<li>Only use sling with correct clip or loop attachment type for the sling bar.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>6. Prepare Environment<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Determine number of caregivers needed:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Most lifts require two or more caregivers to safely operate lift and handle patient.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Position lift and receiving surface:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Move lift base legs near or around patient&#8217;s device.<\/li>\n<li>Base legs are usually more stable in full open position.<\/li>\n<li>Position lift and receiving surface at correct height to transfer patient easily.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Clear path for lift:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ensure there is space for lift to pivot and move freely to receiving area.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure lift is able to fit under or around receiving surface and through doorways.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>7. Prepare Equipment<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Ensure battery is charged for transfer.<\/li>\n<li>Test lift controls before bringing lift to patient.<\/li>\n<li>Make sure the emergency release feature works.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure receiving surface is stable and locked.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure slings, hooks, chains, straps and supports are available, appropriate and correctly sized.<\/li>\n<li>Check lift and sling weight limits.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure patient&#8217;s weight does not exceed the limits.<\/li>\n<li>Examine sling and attachment areas for tears, holes and frayed seams.<\/li>\n<li>DO NOT USE sling with any signs of wear.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>8. Place Patient in Sling<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Place patient in sling.<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Position center of sling under patient\u2019s spine.<\/li>\n<li>Place leg straps flat under patient; do not let material fold.<\/li>\n<li>Make sure sling opening is not large enough to let patient slip out or too small to let patient fall out.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lower sling bar down to patient. Do not let sling bar hit patient. <\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Attach sling straps to sling bar as directed by manufacturer.<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Use matching loops from each side to ensure sling is balanced.<\/li>\n<li>Choose loops that provide best angle and position for patient.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure all clips or loops are secure and will stay attached as patient is lifted.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure straps are not twisted.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure patient&#8217;s head and\/or back is supported, if needed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>9. Perform Safety Check<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Before lifting the patient, perform safety check:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Examine all hooks and fasteners to ensure they will not unhook during use.<\/li>\n<li>Double-check position and stability of straps and other equipment before lifting patient.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure clips, latches and bars are securely fastened and structurally sound.<\/li>\n<li>For electric lifts, make sure batteries are always charged<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>10. Lift the Patient<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Lift patient two inches off the surface to make sure patient is secure. Check the following:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Sling straps are confined by guard on sling bar and will not disengage.<\/li>\n<li>Weight is spread evenly between straps.<\/li>\n<li>Patient will not slide out of sling or tip backward or forward.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Check patient&#8217;s comfort:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Make sure sling does not pinch or pull patient\u2019s skin.<\/li>\n<li>Ask if patient is comfortable.<\/li>\n<li>Look for non-verbal signs of discomfort.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>Slowly lift patient, only as high as necessary to complete transfer. Check the following:<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Patient is still comfortable.<\/li>\n<li>Sling will not hurt patient&#8217;s skin.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>11. Lower the Patient<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li>Use gentle hands-on pressure to guide patient as you slowly move lift toward receiving surface.<\/li>\n<li>Slowly lower patient toward receiving surface. Move patient&#8217;s body into correct position on receiving surface before releasing patient&#8217;s weight.<\/li>\n<li>Release patient&#8217;s weight. Do not let sling bar hit patient.<\/li>\n<li>Detach sling from lift using manufacturer\u2019s instructions.<\/li>\n<li>Carefully remove sling from patient&#8217;s body, if necessary.\n<ul>\n<li>Be careful not to hurt patient\u2019s skin.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure that seated patients do not fall forward as sling is removed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>If power fails, use the emergency release to lower patient manually.<\/p>\n<h2>12. Patient Lifts at Home<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Get training from a qualified medical professional before operating a patient lift at home.<\/li>\n<li>Keep manufacturer\u2019s instructions close to your lift and always follow them.<\/li>\n<li>Have a back-up plan in case your lift stops working properly.<\/li>\n<li>When selecting a lift for home use, ensure you have the required number of caregivers needed to operate the lift.<\/li>\n<li>Keep children and pets away from lift<\/li>\n<li>Make sure you recognize and understand the alarms and error messages. Always follow through when you hear an alarm.<\/li>\n<li>Call your supplier or manufacturer if you need help or have a problem with the device.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>13. Sling Care<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Do not share slings between patients unless slings are properly washed and disinfected.<\/li>\n<li>Disinfect and scrub areas that contact patient&#8217;s skin.<\/li>\n<li>Do not bleach. Do not iron. Air dry only. Do not machine dry.<\/li>\n<li>Throw away used disposable slings.<\/li>\n<li>Follow manufacturer sanitation and wash instructions.<\/li>\n<li>Remove metal or plastic reinforcements if required.<\/li>\n<li>Sling Care Disinfect slings after every use.<\/li>\n<li>Do not use slings that are frayed, ripped or have holes.\u00a0If sling shows signs of wear, replace it immediately.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>14. Patient Lift Care<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Follow manufacturer instructions to clean and disinfect lift.<\/li>\n<li>Always clean lift before and after each patient use.<\/li>\n<li>Disinfect all lift surfaces.<\/li>\n<li>Wipe off traces of disinfectant.<\/li>\n<li>Clean motor casings and ceiling tracks if using an overhead lift.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Source: FDA.gov<\/em><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Lifting and moving patients either in a healthcare institution or at home can be dangerous task, as doing so improperly can injure the patient or damage the lift.\u00a0The FDA has a comprehensive download that breaks down the ways to lift patients safely in this colorful handout; but we&#8217;ve compiled the information from that handout below: &#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":15781,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1305],"tags":[1236,1954],"class_list":["post-28223","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-featured","tag-healthcare","tag-patient-safety"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28223","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=28223"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28223\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":59002,"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28223\/revisions\/59002"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15781"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=28223"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=28223"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.atlantictraining.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=28223"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}