Patient Hoists and Lifters: A Practical Guide

A typical mobile hoist has a base with legs that widen for stability, a mast, and a boom that raises or lowers a sling. Many units also include emergency controls, such as a manual lowering option if power is unavailable and a stop button on the control box.

Yoke hoists

These use a hanger-style spreader bar with two to four sling attachment points. They are commonly used for transfers from bed, floor or chair to another surface.

Pivot hoists

These use a U-shaped attachment with four connection points. They can offer greater control over comfort and positioning during the lift and transfer process.

Standing hoists

Standing hoists are commonly used to help a person rise from sitting, assist with dressing or toileting, and support transfers when the person can take some weight but cannot stand safely without help.

Carers should be trained to use a hoist with an understanding of the specific person being assisted. Transfers can be stressful, and poor equipment choice or poor technique can create real risk.

• Two carers are often recommended for lift and transfer tasks.
• An Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist should guide equipment selection where needed.
• Suppliers can explain how a product works, but that does not automatically make them qualified to assess what a particular person needs.

Hoists and slings work as a system. If you are comparing options, it is worth also reading our guide to patient hoist slings.

For product information, visit patient hoists and slings. If you need practical help, contact our team.