Every patient transfer needs to be done with safety in mind – safety for the patient and the caregiver. Patient transfers are always a challenge. Moving people securely from bed to chair, from chair to toilet, or any other type of transfer needs to be done multiple times a day and quickly becomes a strain for both parties. This is especially true when the patient is overweight.
The extra weight carried by bariatric patients can make it impossible for caregivers to accomplish basic care tasks such as the following:
- transferring to and from beds, chairs, and toilets
- lateral transfers to and from beds and stretchers
- repositioning in beds or chairs
- accessing limbs or other parts of the body for hygiene or wound care
Adding more caregivers isn’t the answer. Caring for bariatric patients safely and with dignity and comfort requires the extra assistance of a ceiling lift.
What is a Ceiling Lift?
A ceiling lift is a mechanized medical assistance device that is mounted permanently to the ceiling of a home, hospital, or another care facility. The lift attaches to a railing system between rooms and runs along the ceiling. Grab points, slings, and railings are also part of the system and assist with safely moving patients of all shapes and sizes. When not in use, the lift stores out of the way.
Ceiling lifts come with either a 2-way or a 4-way motor. A 2-way motor lifts and lowers the patient. Lateral movement along the track is then done under the caregiver’s power. Four-way motors lift, lower, and move the patient forward and backward along the track. These four-way motors are generally recommended for bariatric patients to protect caregivers from exertion while moving the patient along the railing.
In addition to needing a 4-way motor, other options also need to be considered for bariatric care. Each ceiling lift model is with specific weight capacities, so it’s important to purchase a lift system that will safely handle larger weights. In addition, special bariatric slings are required to fit larger patients comfortable and securely.
The Right Solution
Ceiling lifts are the best solution for patients and caregivers. Caregivers regularly suffer back and shoulder injuries as a result of patient transfers; ceiling lifts protect against both. With the help of ceiling lifts, patients can have greater mobility without the indignities of awkward and unsafe manual transfers.
Ceiling lifts are simple and safe to use. They are a gentle way to offer bariatric patients the level of care they deserve and need while protecting caregivers at the same time.
