Chapter 3. Safer Patient Handling, Positioning, Transfers and Ambulation
3.8 Types of Patient Transfers: Transfers Using Mechanical Aids
Depending on the risk assessment, the healthcare worker may choose to use a mechanical aid to assist with transferring a patient. The following videos provide some general direction to do this. It is the nurse’s responsibility to be oriented to the equipment they are working with and always use it in a safe manner.
Watch the following videos (2018) by Kim Morris of Thompson Rivers University School of Nursing:
Table 3.6 provides information about different kinds of slings used in the above videos.
Table 3.6: Choosing a Sling to Be Used with the Ceiling Lift |
|
Type of Sling |
Indications for Use |
| Universal slings |
|
| Hammock slings |
|
| Hygiene slings |
|
| Data source: Stewart, 2018 |
Special considerations:
- All mechanical aids have weight restrictions. Check your agency equipment and guidelines.
- All equipment has specific manufacturer’s guidelines for use. It is the agency’s responsibility to provide resources for orientation to all equipment and the healthcare worker’s responsibility to be oriented to the use of all equipment being used.
Critical Thinking Exercises
- In the following situations, provide rationale for your choice of type of sling when using a ceiling lift: (a) transfer to a shower chair; (b) transfer to a wheelchair.