How to Use a Hoyer Lift Safely
Knowing how to use a Hoyer lift is a crucial safety concern both for the patient and the caregiver. Designed to move patients from place to place—for example, from their bed to the bathroom—Hoyer lifts make it possible for people with significant mobility issues to continue living at home.
Hoyer lifts can improve the quality of life of patients suffering from a range of conditions or injuries by helping them transition safely between multiple surfaces (rather than staying in bed). Caregivers must receive adequate training as the unsafe use of a patient lift can lead to injury.
What Is a Hoyer Lift?
Patient lifts are often called Hoyer lifts, but Hoyer is only one brand of patient lift. Patient lifts are pieces of durable medical equipment that facilitate the safe transportation of a patient with mobility issues from one surface to another, for example, between a bed and a wheelchair. In our Denver, Colorado store, we stock patient lifts for a wide range of mobility needs.
Patient lifts make it safer and easier to move a patient as the lift significantly reduces the amount of strain on the caregiver. Wolf et al. reported significant improvements in caregivers’ musculoskeletal comfort in all body parts, including knees, shoulders, and the lower back region. Hoyer lifts are often found in medical facilities and can also be installed at home.
Parts of a Patient Lift
A patient lift features a U-shaped base, an overhead swivel bar, and a large sling that accommodates the patient. Together, these parts lift the patient, transport him or her, and lower him or her onto another surface.
How Is a Hoyer Lift Different from Other Lifts?
A Hoyer lift differs from other lifts, for example, asit-to-stand lift, in that it can transfer a patient from a sitting or lying position (rather than just between sitting and standing) and transfer them from one surface to another. A sit-to-stand lift requires a caregiver to help the patient move to another place after the lift assists them in standing.
How Does a Hoyer Lift Work?
There are different types of patient lifts, but the basic premise is the same in every case. Hoyer lifts feature universal slings or U-slings that are attached securely to a hydraulic arm. The sling is placed under the patient and the lift's hydraulic arm lifts the patient and moves them in the direction they need to go.
Aside from U-slings, there are other types of Hoyer lift slings like full-body slings or standing slings. Though these are less common, they could be worth investigating.
Depending on the model of your lift, the lift can move in different ways. While some rotate, others have a track system attached to the ceiling.
How to Use a Hoyer Lift Safely
Using a Hoyer lift is fairly simple. However, it's important to familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's instructions before attempting to use a Hoyer lift, even if you have previous experience of using one. This is because different models may have different features. Operating a patient lift will also differ depending on whether you have an electric or manual model. The following instructions will help you operate most systems.
How to Operate an Electric Patient Lift for a Bed-to-Chair Transfer
Help the patient roll onto their side and slide the sling under their body.
When using U-slings, ensure that the sling is totally under the patient's body. To do this, gently roll the patient first to one side and then to the other so that the sling can be pulled further under the body.
The patient can then roll back to a lying position on top of the sling.
Take the sling's loops and attach them securely to the lift. Make sure the sling is tightly attached before attempting a lift. At this point, make sure the patient is comfortable and calm and that their weight appears to be evenly distributed.
Electric patient lifts use controls to begin the lifting process. Upon pressing a button, the lift will slowly start to raise the patient. Make sure they're securely in the sling as it starts to go up.
Lift the patient from the starting point to the edge of the surface they need to sit on. Remove any obstacles or anything that impedes them from sitting down properly.
Turn the patient around so they face away from the back of the chair.
Now you're ready to lower the patient onto the chair. Gently lower them and help them position themselves comfortably. Be sure not to let the sling bar hit the patient as you release their weight.
Begin removing the sling while it's still connected to the lift. Check the patient for any signs of discomfort before helping them with other tasks.
How to Operate a Manual Patient Lift
Manual lifts have very similar operating instructions to electric Hoyer lifts. The only real difference between a manual and an electric or power model is how the boom is raised or lowered.
A manual lift's pump handle is used to raise the boom. Move the handle up and down repeatedly until you achieve the desired height.
Important Safety Considerations
Always keep the following in mind when operating a patient lift:
Always move the lift slowly to prevent falls and other accidents.
Take time to ensure the patient is sitting in the middle of the sling. Sitting off-center may be uncomfortable and is more likely to result in accidents.
Work with another caregiver whenever possible. With two people, one can operate the lift, and the other can support the patient's back and make sure they don't slip and fall from the sling.
Get to know the machine well and understand what all the buttons do. Some buttons, like the emergency release control, are important to understand in case of power outages.
Experiment with raising and lowering the boom before putting a patient in the sling. Familiarize yourself with all the functions beforehand so that you can offer a safer experience for the patient.
Other Important Things to Know about Patient Lifts
Investing in a patient lift is a big step. Before purchasing a patient lift, consider the following:
The Costs Involved
Hoyer lift cost will likely be one of the most pressing concerns for many families. Hoyer lifts vary greatly in price depending on whether they are electric or manual, their features, and the brand you choose.
Patient lifts can range between $400 and $15,000. For that reason, it's important to do your research and ask a professional with expert knowledge of mobility devices for advice when choosing a lift.
The Weight Capacity
The average weight capacity for Hoyer lifts is between 400 and 500 pounds. Patients who are heavier than this may require a bariatric model. Some of these models can handle up to 1000 pounds.
The Dimensions and Portability of the Lift
Lifts come in many shapes, sizes, and styles. Be sure that your lift will fit into the rooms in the patient's home. Take into account the floor space as well as any doorways the lift might need to pass through.
Some Hoyer lifts are foldable or detachable, or simply small enough to transport from room to room. Keep in mind how and where you'll use the lift when choosing a model.
Range of Lift Height
Ideally, your lift should be able to reach down to the floor to help somebody who has suffered a fall. It should also be able to lift patients to the level of a tall mattress.
Features
Look for the following features in your Hoyer lift:
Controls and switches: Electric lifts should have buttons to stop the lift motor immediately in case of an emergency. Look for a manual override function too so you can still use the lift in a power outage.
Slings: There are a range of different slings available. Choose a sturdy sling that suits the height, weight, and needs of the patient.
Put Safety First When Using a Hoyer Lift
Taking steps to familiarize yourself with the general functioning and safety features of a Hoyer lift will allow you to provide the best possible support for the patient. Knowing how the lift works as well as what to do in situations like power outages will ensure the safest experience.
It’s also important to choose a Hoyer lift that suits the needs of both the patient and the caregiver. Ask a professional for help in selecting a patient lift that you’ll be able to use safely and effectively with the patient in your care.