Being moved, or moving someone, often times requires the assistance of another person and/or a transfer device.
These devices include gait belts, transfer boards, patient lifts and standing lifts.
This article will cover the different features and benefits of these transfer devices.
Before attempting any transfer, it is best to receive proper training from a healthcare professional.
It is recommended that before using any of these transfer devices, you should consult with your physician to find out which one best fits your unique situation.
A gait belt is a device that is worn around the midsection of the patient; the fit should be snug but not tight.
It looks similar to a belt or lumbar support belt, and may have handles/loops on the exterior for better gripping.
This device allows the caregiver, such as a physical therapist or nurse, to hold onto the patient and keep them steady and secure during a transfer.
It is most commonly used while performing standing pivot and sliding board transfers, as well as gait training.
The transfer board provides a smooth, flat surface upon which non-ambulatory patients can slide from one seating surface to another.
Two examples of common utilization are: transferring between a bed and wheelchair, and transferring between a wheelchair and commode.
The board itself comes in a variety of materials, shapes and sizes.
The most common are made of wood, but they are also available in plastic for a lighter weight alternative.
The length can vary from 24 inches long to 36 inches long, depending on the needs and size of the patient.
Each end of the board is tapered and can be ordered with or without hand holes cut into one or both ends.
These cut outs allow the patient to put their hand in the hole to help pull themselves across the board.
They also allow for a better grip when handling/moving the board.
In most cases, the maximum patient weight capacity is 250 pounds.
Another type of transfer board is a Beasy Board.
This board is made of plastic and incorporates a sliding disc that glides down a track on the top of the transfer board.
It requires less effort on the part of the patient as well as the caregiver.
It comes in three different lengths.
The 40-inch board is used for long distance transfers, such as from a wheelchair to car seat.
The 32-inch board has a curve in the base to help glide around the wheelchair tire.
The curved base also enhances the caregiver's natural motion.
This size was designed to assist with transfers from the wheelchair to the bed or other seating surfaces.
The last style is the 27-inch board, which is ideal for tight spaces such as the bathroom.
This style may be used for independent transfers with proper training from a healthcare professional.
The maximum weight capacity is 400 pounds.
A patient lift is a mechanical device that lifts the patient from the bed, wheelchair or commode and transfers them to another seating surface.
This type of transfer picks the patient up with the use of a hydraulic pump and a sling.
The sling is placed under the patient and the boom is placed over the clients lap or head, depending on the model/manufacturer.
Pumping the hand lever to raise the patient from the seating surface operates the manual lift.
Most models also have a handle that will spread the base wider, allowing for a more stable transfer.
Most manufacturers also make an electric model.
This feature makes using the lift much easier.
It allows the caregiver to walk around the client as the transfer is being made assuring the safest and most comfortable transfer.
Patients can be transferred from a seated or supine position.
Most lifts have a maximum weight capacity of 450 pounds, however, they are available in capacities of up to 1000 pounds.
The next type of lift is the standing lift.
It is designed to assist with transfers between the bed, wheelchair and commode.
Unlike the patient lift discussed earlier, the standing lift can only be used with clients who are weight bearing and able to sit upright.
This is the perfect lift for the individual who doesn't require a patient lift but is unable to use any of the transfer board devices.
The caregiver should stand in front of the patient when putting on the sling.
Slip the sling over the shoulder and under the armpits.
Connect the belt/strap around the waist; the fit should be snug but not tight.
Spread the base of the standing unit and move it toward the patient.
Put their feet on the footpad and push the unit forward until the knees come into contact with the kneepad.
Most transfers do not require the client to be lifted any higher than is necessary to get on or off of the item they are transferring to or from.
There are certainly different devices available to the caregiver to assist them in performing safe transfers with their patients.
To choose the right one for you, consider the abilities, as well as the limitations, of the patient, the environment and the caregiver.