What are Transfer Lifts
Patients, especially those facing mobility difficulties, put a lot of trust in their caregivers. Therefore, it's paramount that caregivers can accommodate patient needs with dignity and an open line of communication. Transfer lifts help achieve that by providing a way to move patients that face mobility issues from the bed to a chair, a bath, or anywhere else they need to go. It's clear how important it is to get around, but what are the ways modern nurses and caregivers achieve this?
A transfer lift is one essential tool to help people with mobility difficulties get from place to place. You can find these lifts everywhere, from hospitals to in-home care setups, and they range from large and highly customizable to simple and comfortable. Depending on the type of mobility issues a user faces, there are many options that should suit at least some of their needs.
This article will discuss transfer lifts and how they create safe and accessible environments for caregivers and patients.
What is a Transfer Lift?
A transfer lift is a device used to help caregivers and patients with limited mobility move from one location to another. They come in several sizes and weight limits and can even be attached to the ceiling or walls or have legs with wheels. Some are mechanical, while others use levers and hydraulics. Some lifts use slings and specialty seats to help support a patient during transfer, while others help move a patient's entire weight from one surface to another.
The variety of transfer lifts available on the market means that mobility difficulties can be covered regardless of the complexities involved.
For those with limited mobility, transfer lifts like the Mobile Patient Lift cover not only the basic needs of a transfer but essential needs like comfort and dignity during transfers.
Who Needs a Transfer Lift?
There are several lifting and transfer options for caregivers to choose from, allowing for a near-perfect solution. When evaluating whether a person will benefit from using a transfer lift or not, there are a few determining factors. The first factor is always the patient. To understand their needs, caregivers must determine their mobility limitations and the environment they are being transferred in or to. If the patient can move independently, with supervision, or relatively quickly with a small amount of support, then a transfer may not be for them. Most lifts cater to those with more severe mobility issues.
If the patient requires two-person assistance or has less than 50 percent control of their mobility, a transfer device can help relieve the patient from unneeded physical stress.
The Benefit for Caregivers and Patients
Transfer lifts aren't only for the patient. Caregivers also use transfer lifts to protect themselves and their physical well-being. A constant need for the caregiver to bear a patient's weight can lead to strain, pain, and burnout. Caregivers can help themselves and their patients or loved ones by protecting their backs and shoulders during long-term movement. This leads to less need for additional care staff and a happier relationship with their patients.
Transfer lifts are for patients who:
- Have trouble using their arms or hands to hold themselves in place with a sit-to-stand lift
- Have degenerative medical conditions and are at risk of worsening effects with physical strain
- Display limited ability to lift themselves
They are also great for caretakers who:
- Are caring for unpredictable or easily agitated patients
- Are caring for a loved one at home
- Also have limited mobility themselves
Overall, anyone who needs help moving but cannot do so on their own will need a transfer lift. They often serve as the in-between from the bed to a wheelchair or as the central aid to reach a bathroom apparatus. Establishing familiarity with a transfer lift and continual use by the caregiver and patient can lead to a less stressful relationship between both parties. It also helps with giving more independence to patients being cared for in their homes.
Transfer Lifts Protect Patients and Caregivers from Harm
Mobility is an essential aspect of our everyday life and comfort. Transfer lifts of all kinds help people with limited mobility continue to live rewarding and dignified lives. Lifts like the Mobile Patient Lift go the extra mile and provide a solution to common problems with most lifts, including undignified transfers and cumbersome equipment. Learn more to discover just how efficient a patient lift can get.
Back to blog