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Dear
Mary:
Horizontal manual repositioning of patients is still an accepted practice. Why? To begin, there are situations you’ll encounter where it simply is not practical or possible to use a mechanical aid such as a powered lift. As a result, manual repositioning does sometimes have to be used, but the Lift Doctor recommends you use it with a modern twist. Low-friction materials are now being employed to manufacture various types and sizes of repositioning devices. Properly utilized (follow the manufacturer’s instructions!) these sheets and tube-like devices can make the task much easier and less prone to cause an injury to either the patient or the caregiver. Some of the sheets are disposable, while others are capable of being laundered numerous times and still retain their slipperiness.
Note, however, that there are precautions you’ll need to observe when using low-friction sheets. For example, you’ll probably need to remove the sheet from beneath the patient when the repositioning is complete in order to keep the patient from slipping to the floor. Also, it’s often recommended that two caregivers or more participate in the move in order to lessen the pulling forces needed and further decrease the chances of the patient slipping off the surface.
Stay safe,
The Lift Doctor* |
