The purpose of a patient lift is to simplify the process of transferring a patient from his bed to his wheelchair, armchair or commode. It comes in electric and hand-powered forms. The apparatus is equipped with a hammock-style sling made of cloth that you attach to the upper steel part, known as the cradle. When used correctly, it can prove ergonomically beneficial to you as a caregiver. According to the Handicappedequipment.org website, the device safely handles 350 to 450 pounds. It relieves you of the task of actually physically lifting the individual and from bending over his bed, both of which can result in long-term back injuries.
Instructions
1. Instruct the patient to hold onto the rails of the bed. If the patient doesn't have the strength to do this, have two people -- one on each side -- place each hand on its corresponding rail. Raise the bed level to its maximum position.
2. Lower the side bed rails. Bring down the bed. Use the middle lever.
3. Position the lift underneath the bed. Open and lock the legs of the base, using the lever in the center.
4. Lower the patient in bed so that you may attach the sling. Swing the patient's feet so that they are free of the bed.
5. Remove the lift from the bed. Use the steering handle.
6. Lower the patient's feet so that they rest at the bottom of the lift, straddling its mast. If your lift operates on a control valve, close the valve.
7. Roll the patient so that he rests on his side. Place the sling -- the hammock-like cloth that allows you to lift him -- behind his back. Roll him onto his back.
8. Pull the leg loops forward and under his thigh. Cross the loops.
9. Roll the base of the lifting device as far under the patient's bed as it will go.
10. Attach both sides of the sling to the cradle of the device, which is the top part of the lift with hooks in it that holds the sling in place.
11. Raise the patient slowly, pumping the steering bar in the middle of the base of the lift. Continue this upward pumping motion until his hind parts are just above the mattress.
12. Grasp his legs. Turn him so that his feet dangle off the bed. Lower the bed if you require more clearance.
13. Prepare the wheelchair to receive the patient, if that is his desired destination. Set the parking brakes.
14. Lower the patient slowly into his wheelchair, armchair or commode. Gently remove his legs from the sling. Have someone carefully back the lift away from the patient as you are removing his legs from the lift.
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