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Hoyer Lift Information

Patients with limited mobility often depend on caregivers to help them get into and out of bed. These transfers can be a source of discomfort for the patient and put both the patient and caregivers at risk of injury. Use of a Hoyer lift can help to ease discomfort and decrease risk of injury.

  1. What is a Hoyer Lift?

    • Hoyer is a brand name for the sling lift. A sling lift is a crane-like device that assists caregivers in lifting and transferring patients with limited mobility. Attached to the device is a sling, usually made of canvas or nylon, that supports the patient during transfer. Lifts can be used to transfer patients from their beds onto a chair, wheelchair, bedside toilet, bathtub or shower. Lifts are utilized in most hospitals and long-term care facilities and also are available for home use.

    Types and Availability

    • Hoyer lifts are available in both manual and electric versions. Manual lifts feature hydraulic chambers operated by hand pumps. Electric versions are powered by rechargeable batteries. They can be purchased or rented from home health agencies or other medical equipment suppliers. Most insurance plans will cover all or part of the cost of the lift. This might require a prescription or other documentation from the patient's doctor stating the necessity of the lift.

    Importance

    • Hoyer lifts reduce the risk of injury to both patient and caregiver. Patients transferred by a Hoyer lift have their body weight supported equally, reducing the pain or discomfort that may be caused by other means of transfer. Hoyer lifts also allow caregivers to utilize proper body mechanics while transferring patients, reducing the risk of strain or injury caused by improper lifting techniques.

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