The moving and handling of vulnerable people is something that takes place frequently in a care environment. Although picking someone up after they trip or helping them to get out of bed might not seem dangerous at first, these simple actions can cause serious injuries when not handled correctly. Improper moving and handling not only puts the person being lifted at risk, but it can also injure the care provider trying to help too.
Since manually lifting a person often requires multiple people, and a great deal of time, preparation, and strength, many care facilities invest in hoists to improve the moving process. Hoists, both for the floor and ceiling, help with lifting patients that have fallen over, moving them from one location to another, and even getting people out of the bath.
Hoists are valuable because they allow carers to use less physical strength when moving another person. This means that there’s a reduced risk of injury or strain to the care provider, and the person being lifted enjoys a better level of comfort.
Hoists ensure that people in need of mobility assistance can get the independence and support they need when moving around at home, or in an assisted living environment. Depending on the needs of the people being cared for, hoists can come in a variety of different styles, with slings to suit people with a range of health conditions.
To safely and easily lift someone with a hoist, it’s essential to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer of the lift device. Usually, with a ceiling hoist, you’ll need to:
Remember, getting the best results from your hoist will rely on your ability to choose and use the right kind of lifting apparatus. For instance, you’ll need to ensure that you know the difference between a ceiling or floor hoist, and how each would benefit your patient. Some hoists are better suited to specific tasks. It’s also crucial to ensure that you have the right size of sling for the patient you’re lifting. For the best results:
To discuss how you can make moving and handling easier, reach out to HLS today and discover our incredible range of hoists.
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