Patient Lifts
Patient lifts are designed to lift and transfer patients from one place to another (e.g., from bed to bath, chair to stretcher). These should not be confused with stairway chair lifts or elevators. Patient lifts may be operated using a power source or manually. The powered models generally require the use of a rechargeable battery and the manual models are operated using hydraulics. While the design of patient lifts will vary based on the manufacturer, basic components may include a mast (the vertical bar that fits into the base), a boom (a bar that extends over the patient), a spreader bar (which hangs from the boom), a sling (attached to the spreader bar, designed to hold the patient), and a number of clips or latches (which secure the sling). These medical devices provide many benefits, including reduced risk of injury to patients and caregivers when properly used. However, improper use of patient lifts can pose significant public health risks. Patient falls from these devices have resulted in severe patient injuries including head traumas, fractures, and deaths.