Caring for a loved one with mobility challenges will often involve the use of assistive devices such as hoist slings. These invaluable tools – also known as patient lift slings – can provide comfort, support and safety during transfers as well as mobility assistance. Whether you're a caregiver or a healthcare professional, knowing how to use a patient lift sling correctly is crucial for the well-being of both the patient and the caregiver.
In this guide from Complete Care Shop, we will be going through the essential steps and best practices for effectively and safely using a patient lift sling. Empower yourself with the knowledge of how to put a sling under a patient to ensure a smooth and secure lifting experience for everyone involved.
What is a patient sling?
In this context, a patient sling is a supporting belt or harness that is used in conjunction with a lifting device such as a hoist or standing aid. Slings are most often used to lift and transport people with limited mobility to help them with tasks such as dressing, bathing or using the toilet.
There are many different types of sling and their designs will depend on the needs of the individual and the activity in which they will be engaged.
Types of slings
It's crucial to choose the right type of sling for the individual's needs. You must also consider factors such as their physical abilities, body shape and the area to be supported.
Here are the main different types of sling:
Full back slings
A full back sling is a larger harness that encloses the whole of the person's back, keeping them well supported along their full length, from the head to thighs.
Access slings
An access sling is generally smaller than a full sling and only covers certain parts of the body, thereby giving you better access for activities such as bathing or enabling the person you are caring for to visit the toilet.
Disposable slings
A disposable sling is designed to be assigned to an individual and would primarily be used in hospitals to prevent cross-infection, although they can be used in care homes or hospices for short-term patients.
Slings for stand aids
In some cases, the intention is not to lift someone off the ground but merely to help them to sit down safely or to rise to a position from which they can then walk. Slings for stand aids, therefore, perform a different function and tend to be worn around the base of the back.
How to use a patient lift sling
When providing care for a patient with mobility issues, it’s important that you know how to use a patient lift sling and how to put a sling under the person you are caring for to best provide care for them. Safety, comfort and proper technique are all paramount to ensure not only your well-being but that of your loved one is prioritised.
We advise you follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines at all times to properly connect and secure the sling to the lift, ensuring it is stable and capable of bearing the weight.
You might find these top tips on how to put a sling under a patient useful:
- Set up the patient lift or hoist in a suitable location where it is close to hand
- Ensure any attachment points or loops are accessible and facing upward for easy connection to the lift
- Adjust the sling for a snug and secure fit, avoid putting pressure on sensitive areas
- Lift the patient gradually and smoothly, keeping them close to the ground and avoiding sudden movements.
Slings – important factors
The buying criteria for a sling will differ according to its intended purpose. However, the following are some general considerations that may help you make a more informed choice.
- Safety – look for sturdy, quick-release lap belts and fastenings
- Design – a deeper, wrap-around sling will afford greater security and lateral stability; a more open design makes tasks such as washing and toileting much easier
- Adjustability – check that the sling's height and angle can be adjusted using the hanging straps
- Padding – some slings have padded sections for greater comfort
- Weight – some slings are made deliberately light for ease of packing or storage
- Material – slings made from quick-draining mesh are better suited for use while bathing
- Hygiene – an easy clean fabric is important, especially if the sling is to be used in the WC or bathroom
- Comfort – look for vapour-permeable fabrics that prevent the build-up of excessive heat or moisture
- Strength – check the maximum user weight to ensure that it is suitable for the person you're caring for.
All the help you need from Complete Care Shop
If you have any more questions about which slings or mobility aids are best for you, we will be more than happy to help. At Complete Care Shop, we’re determined to support you to the best of our ability so you and your patient can live your best lives.
For any queries and support, don’t hesitate to contact us.