In relation to home healthcare, there are several things that can be helpful and a Hoyer lift is certain one of them. There are many reasons to use a lift, but perhaps two of the more important reasons are for comfort and safety.

The caregiver has the responsibility of maneuvering or transferring a patient while inflicting as little pain as possible and doing it in the safest manner possible. In such instances, a Hoyer lift can be helpful when it comes to transferring patients securely and safely. A Hoyer lift doesn't just protect the patient, it allows the caregiver to avoid serious strain or trauma. It doesn’t really matter how strong a health worker thinks they are, it may be a good idea to use the lift to guard against possible future injuries to themselves like back strain or pulled muscles. Properly lifting a patient, a lift will basically take the place of the health professional, avoiding straining back muscles. All through the transfer, the patient is also able to feel far more secure and safe because of the added stability. The lift may also help the patient relax, as they will not have to be in such close physical contact with the caregiver during this time, which can alleviate some uncomfortable feelings.

The process of utilizing a Hoyer lift is rather simple, especially compared to not using one whatsoever. When the caregiver is ready to begin, it may a good idea for them to clarify exactly what they are going to do. Sometimes it can be very nerve racking for a patient to know that they are going to be raised. The degree of stress may be reduced if the health worker takes a few minutes to reassure the patient and inform them of what can be expected in the process.

Raising the bed to the maximum level may be a good place to begin. As you prepare yourself for the transfer, the pad could be slipped under the patient a lot easier. If there are side rails on the bed it may be a good idea to make sure they are both up so the patient has something to grip as they sit up. Rolling the patient to one side while they grab the railing can allow the caregiver to put the padding underneath the patient comfortably. Then having the patient roll the other way to get the other half of the pad underneath the patient is the next thing to do. The next step would be to position the leg straps and set them under each thigh area. After the patient and pad is in position, lowering the bed to a more suitable level is necessary where the patient does not feel too high once picked up with the Hoyer.

Once the loops from the pad are properly secure on the lift the caregiver can carefully begin to lift the individual off of the bed. The lift will move the patient into a sitting position. Having the base spread apart for proper balance of the patient is one thing to watch for. Once the patient is directly over the item where the transfer needs to end, and then the care provider can lower the lift. If it is a wheel chair, ensuring the brakes are locked before setting the patient down is advisable. Once lowered, the loops can be unhooked and the pad extracted. For both the patient and the caregiver, this kind of transfer using a Hoyer lift can be made safe and comfortable.