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Types of Patient Lifts

Caring for patients who have lost their full range of motion can be difficult. While it is important to maintain as much dignity and independence as possible for the patient, it is also important for the caregiver to use safe lifting methods to prevent injuries. There are several types of patient lifts that are used to move patients as needed while requiring minimal effort from the caregiver. The needs of the patient determine which type of lift is the best choice for assisting with moving that patient.

  1. Sit-to-Stand Lifts

    • A sit-to-stand lift is designed to help caregivers maintain a patient in a standing position without the caregiver providing the physical support to the patient. This is especially helpful to the caregiver during dressing or undressing, or moving from the bed to a chair. Sit-to-stand lifts offer the patient advantages as the patient is a more active part of her care. Also, by maintaining a standing position for an amount of time, circulation and joint range of motion may improve, which are both important factors to maintaining a patient's independence.

    Mobile Floor Lifts

    • The mobile floor lift enables a caregiver to help a patient out of bed or even off of the floor if she has fallen and can't get up on her own. This type of lift may be powered by hydraulics, batteries or require manual cranking in order to lift the patient. Some mobile units can collapse small enough to be used on trips outside of a full-time care facility. Due to the mobile nature of these lifts, it is important to make sure the brakes are engaged on all four wheels before starting to lift the patient.

    Traverse Rail Lifts

    • A traverse rail system consists of a rail mounted to the ceiling of the room. This allows the caregiver to connect a chair or sling to the rail and then slide the patient across the room on the rail. These systems are very helpful with transporting patients to the bathroom for showers. They also are easier for caregivers to use as the lift itself is above the patient and caregiver, which eliminates the challenge of maneuvering the lift across the floor in tight areas.

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