1. Patient sling positioning
Ensure that the patient is ready, then
slowly lean them forward to allow the
sling to be slid down behind the back
until the bottom of the sling is positioned
under the coccyx.
The sling leg straps can now be slid
underneath each thigh, remaining careful
to avoid creasing or bunching of the
fabric. (Check with a health professional
if leg straps should be crossed over
for additional support or separated for
enhanced accessibility for hygiene).
2. Attaching the sling to the yoke
Ensure that the lifter legs are open to
the maximum width and slowly position
it as close to the front of the chair as
possible – be careful to keep the boom
and yoke clear of the patient during this
process.
Once the yoke is at chest height on the
patient the sling loops can be attached.
For chair lifts the rear brake castors
should not be used to ensure the lifter
can locate its centre of gravity easily.
3. Lifting the patient
Raise the yoke until the loops of the sling
pull tight. Check that the patient is still
comfortably positioned in the sling and
that the head support is in place (if a
head support model is being used).
Lift the patient only to a height needed
to successfully transfer to the desired
support surface.
Always try to position the two support
surfaces that the lift is taking place
between as close together as possible to
avoid moving the patient over distances
in the sling.
CHAIR
7. LIFTING GUIDE
It is important that carers are familiar with manual handling techniques along with
any sling instructions, prior to completing any patient lifts. All patient’s should have
the correct sling and transfer techniques assessed by a qualified health professional.
Explaining the lift process to the patient is important to ensure patient comfort
and confidence and whenever possible two carers should conduct patient lifts for
additional safety.
1. Patient sling positioning
After rolling the patient on their side and
position the sling along the full length
of the back and head (if a head support
model is being used).
The patient should be rolled into a supine
position so that the sling can be retrieved
and pulled out so that the patient is
positioned centrally (see image)
2. Attaching the sling to the yoke
The lifter should be positioned with the
legs suciently under the bed to allow
the boom and yoke to be positioned
over the patient’s chest. Once in place,
engage the rear castor brakes and
attach the loops of the sling to the
hooks on the yoke.
3. Lifting the patient
Before commencing, release the rear
castor brakes so that the lifter can
adjust its centre of gravity during the
lift. As the loops pull tight, check that
the patient is still in a comfortable
position and that the head support (if
present) is providing correct support.
If the patient sling position remains
correct, the lift can be commenced.
Always try to position the two support
surfaces that the lift is taking place
between as close together as possible
to avoid moving the patient over
distances in the sling.
BED
