HOYER LIFTS: DON’T GET DROPPED

In recent years, many nursing homes have begun using patient lifts. One well-known brand carries the name Hoyer. 

These lifts are generally intended to transfer individuals who are severe fall risks from a bed to a wheelchair. However, in the process of transferring residents, many times the device itself will tip over or the person will fall out of the sling. In some instances, arms and legs have become entrapped resulting in severe injury.

While patient lifts if used properly are a safe means of transferring residents from a bed to a wheelchair, these devices can prove disastrous if proper procedures are not followed or inadequate supervision is provided.