Choosing the Right Patient Lift

When choosing a patient lift, it is important to take several factors into account, such as the capacity of the equipment, the lifting height, the intended configuration/installation, the type of drive system, and the location where it will be used.

• Capacity (maximum weight supported): The patient’s physical constitution and weight should be taken into account, particularly with bariatric patients. Patient lifts are available in different sizes, shapes, and materials. Certain motorized ceiling-mounted models can hold up to 250 kg and are suitable for bariatric patients.
• Lifting height/maximum reach: It is also necessary to consider the dimensions of the support structure, lifting and moving the equipment, as well as its maximum reach, taking into account the patient’s needs, degree of mobility, and condition.
• Configuration/installation: Patient lifts are available in three main configurations, namely with castors, wall-mounted, and ceiling-mounted.
  • Patient lifts on castors: As with other lifts, the patient is placed in the transfer sling, which supports their body weight and in many cases includes a headrest. The transfer sling is held in place by straps suspended from a lifting arm. The lift is operated by a remote control. Lifts on castors are the most widely used because they offer a very practical solution. There are foldable models, which can be stored in small spaces and transported more easily.
  • Wall-mounted patient lifts: These have a boom or lifting arm with a horizontal swivel to lift and move the patient to the right and left. They are also equipped with a transfer sling and adjustable handles. They provide a good level of safety and comfort and also don’t take up any floor space. However, it is essential to ensure that the wall on which they are mounted can support the weight of the equipment and the patient. If not, the wall can be reinforced so that the installation is safe.
  • Ceiling-mounted patient lifts: These are also equipped with a sling that hangs from the ceiling, leaving all the floor space free. They offer more movement possibilities than other models because they have a motor that moves on rail systems fixed to the ceiling. The number and layout of the rails can be adapted to meet specific needs and reach different parts of the space. These models are ideal for autonomous use by the patient at home.
• Drive: There are three main types of drive systems:
  • Electric
  • Battery
  • Manual
• Place of use: It is important to take into account the place where you intend to install and use the lift, as there are models more suitable for hospitals, home use, swimming pools, etc.

Hill-Rom ceiling-mounted patient lift

In addition to the most important factors mentioned above, there are also other factors such as battery life, the dimensions and weight of the device, as well as its cost to consider.

• Battery life (for models with a rechargeable battery): If you opt for a battery-powered patient lift, it should have significant autonomy to reduce the need for manual operation.
• Dimensions and weight of the equipment: Make sure you choose a patient lift whose dimensions and weight are appropriate to the place of installation and use. It is also important to choose equipment that is easy to use for the caregivers and/or health professionals who will be moving the person. Bear in mind that larger lifts are generally more difficult to handle.
• Purchase/rental price: In certain countries, if the patient lift is prescribed by a doctor, the healthcare system may reimburse the cost of the equipment.

Handi-move wall-mounted patient lift

Some models have very practical options, such as:

• Fast and/or constant speed lifting motor
• Two-motor system (for lifting and tilting the patient)
• Auxiliary controls
• Emergency stop
• Scale
• Foldable structure

Handi-move pool patient lift

You may ask yourself whether you should rent or buy a patient lift. Your decision will depend mainly on two criteria: the cost of each option and the period of use.

• Cost:
  • Patient lift rental: You should expect to pay between 15 and 20 euros per week.
  • Purchasing a patient lift: The equipment costs between 650 and 1,400 euros, depending on the model and the options available. To this, you will have to add the price of a sling, which ranges from 60 to 145 euros. It should be noted that ceiling-mounted patient lifts, which have a motor and can be used autonomously by patients, are more expensive, requiring an investment of between 2,000 and 4,500 euros.
• Period of use: If you expect the lift to be needed for a relatively long period of time, you should buy the equipment.

Invacare patient lift on castors