Precautions for the Caregiver of a Hoyer Lift

"Hoyer lift" is a common brand name for a sling lift. Sling lifts are crane-like devices that can be used to lift and transport patients with limited mobility, such as from bed to a wheelchair. Sling lifts are commonly used in hospitals and nursing homes, but they are also available to rent or purchase for home use. Whether in a medical or home setting, caregivers should be trained in the proper use of a sling lift. Taking a few basic precautions can prevent injury to both the patient and the caregiver.

Watch the Weight

• Sling lifts are designed with varying weight limits. Keep the patient's weight in mind when choosing a lift. Attempting to transfer a patient whose weight exceeds the weight limit of the lift can result in serious injury to the patient.

Sling Positioning

• Make sure the patient is properly positioned in the sling before attaching the sling to the lift. Follow the directions for your particular sling. Encourage the patient to participate as much as his condition allows. This may include rolling to one side so that you can position the sling and keeping arms crossed during the lift.

Let the Lift Do the Lifting

• Make sure the lift is centered over the patient and in the lowest position possible before attaching the sling. This reduces the risk of pulling and straining that may cause injury to the caregiver. For example, if the patient is in a hospital bed, raise the bed to its highest level, position the lift over the bed, and then attach the sling.

Shorten the Trip

• Try to shorten the distance of patient transfer as much as possible to reduce risk of injury to both the patient and the caregiver. Preferred Health Choice emphasizes that bed rails on one side should be lowered, rather than trying to use the lift to raise the patient over them. Place the wheelchair or chair in an easy-to-reach position as close as possible to the bed or chair the patient is being transferred from.

Ask for Help

• Sling lifts can usually be operated by one person. However, if the patient being transferred is large or unable to participate in the transfer (i.e. rolling to one side so that the sling can be positioned beneath him), you may need the assistance of another person. Do not attempt a lift by yourself if you feel uncomfortable. This increases the risk of injury to both you and the patient.

Other

• To improve patient comfort and cooperation, explain the lifting procedure before beginning. Assess the patient after each transfer to make sure they have not been injured. Always remove the sling between transfers-do not leave it beneath the patient. Ensure that the patient is repositioned comfortably after each transfer.