Before you decide on the best type of patient hoist, be that the ceiling lift or the bath hoist, you must know how to use the hoist safely. Among all the different hoists, one thing comes before all else – the patient’s safety.
The first thing you need to ensure is that the sling or the hoist swing is the suitable size. If the size is chosen poorly, the patient could be very uncomfortable in the seat, and if it’s too large, you can even risk the patient slipping out.
Another critical thing is to decide on the suitable type of hoist – the mobile hoist may seem like the perfect option for everyone, but that’s not always the case. For care homes, the residential hoist usually consists of ceiling lifts.
Then, ensure that the ceiling tracks and the entire system are inspected regularly. The hoist needs to remain stable, so make sure it’s checked out twice a year, especially if a family member is a carer for the patient. Risk assessment is key for a longer lift and larger hoists more than the smaller ones.
Another critical point for safety is to never leave a person in the mobile hoist unattended – accidents can happen, and they might not be able to call for help. Moreover, make sure that the patient feels comfortable in the hoist, especially if you are using bath hoists. The sling for the patient has multiple loops, which allow for more comfort and a better range of motion.
Try out different loops to determine whether the patient can slip or move – and make sure you tighten both sides equally. If you fail to do so, the patient can overturn and fall.
Post time: Dec-29-2022