Safe Transfer Guide: Using a Hoyer Lift from Bed to Chair

Transferring a patient from bed to a chair (or wheelchair) is one of the most common and core tasks in daily care. A Hoyer Lift transforms this high-risk physical work into a safe and controllable process. Mastering the correct technique is crucial for protecting both the user and the caregiver.

Pre-Transfer Preparation: The Foundation of Success

Environmental Preparation

Clear the Path: Remove all obstacles between the bed and the chair.

Secure Equipment: Lock the bed’s wheels (if equipped). Position the chair firmly next to the bed, engage the wheelchair brakes, and remove the footrests and the armrest on the side closest to the bed (if detachable).

Ideal Angle: Place the chair at an approximately 30–45-degree angle to the bed. This creates the smoothest path for the transfer.

Equipment Check and Communication

Lift Inspection: Ensure the lift has sufficient battery power, and that the base and boom are functioning properly.

Sling Inspection: Check for tears or signs of wear on the sling.

Communicate with the User: Explain each step of the process clearly and calmly to ensure they feel at ease and are willing to cooperate.

Standard Operating Procedure (8-Step Method)

Step 1: Position the User and Place the Sling

Assist the user to lie on their side, facing away from the caregiver.

Lay the folded sling flat on the bed, ensuring its centerline aligns with the user’s spine.

Help the user roll onto their back, pressing down on the sling. Then pull the other half of the sling out from under their body, ensuring it is completely flat with no wrinkles.

Step 2: Position the Lift

Push the lift to the bedside, and slide the front end of its base under the bed.

Ensure the lift is perpendicular to the bed and that the base is fully extended for maximum stability.

Step 3: Attach the Hooks

Rotate the lift boom directly above the user.

Hook the attachment loops on the sling to the lift’s hooks. The typical order is: first attach the shoulder straps, then the leg straps (or vice versa), but ensure symmetry in the attachment.

Key Step: Balance Adjustment: Adjust the length of the chains or straps on the hooks to ensure the user will be in a balanced, nearly horizontal sitting position when lifted. This prevents them from tilting or leaning backward in the air, enhancing safety and comfort.

Step 4: Conduct a Final Safety Check

Verbal Confirmation: Inform the user that the lifting process is about to begin.

Physical Check: Physically confirm that the safety locks on each hook are securely fastened!

Step 5: Lift the User

Operate the controller to lift the user smoothly and slowly.

First, lift slightly until the user’s hips just leave the bed surface. Pause and double-check the balance and the user’s comfort.

Continue lifting until the user is completely off the bed and their feet are clearly away from the bed edge.

Step 6: Transfer to the Chair

Rotate the Boom: Firmly hold the lift’s main pole (never push or pull the boom or the user themselves), and slowly rotate the user so their back faces the chair.

Precise Positioning: Move the user directly above the chair seat.

Watch the Feet: Ensure the user’s feet do not hit the chair legs or wheelchair wheels.

Step 7: Lower the User into the Chair

Operate the controller to lower the user slowly.

During the descent, the caregiver can gently hold the user’s back or shoulders with one hand to guide them safely and comfortably into the deep part of the chair.

Stop lowering once the user is fully seated and their weight is supported by the chair.

Step 8: Detach the Connections

Unlock the safety locks on the hooks and detach one attachment loop at a time.

Recommended Order: First detach the shoulder straps—this allows the back part of the sling to hang down naturally, making it easier to remove.

Finally, detach the leg straps, then gently pull the sling out from under the user.

Rotate the boom back to the neutral position and move the lift away from the chair.

Key Safety Points and Common Mistakes

Must-Dos:

Communication First: Always keep the user informed of the next step.

Fully Extend the Base: This is critical for maintaining stability.

Smooth Operation: Avoid any sudden movements.

Push/Pull the Main Pole: Only move the user by pushing or pulling the lift’s main pole.

Must-Avoids:

Unattended Users: Never leave the user suspended in the air without supervision.

Overloading: Never exceed the lift’s weight capacity limit.

Ignoring Discomfort: If the user complains of pain or the sling feeling too tight, stop immediately to check and adjust.

Conclusion

With a Hoyer Lift and a standardized process, transferring a user from bed to chair can be transformed from an anxiety-inducing physical challenge into a safe, dignified, and efficient routine activity. Adequate preparation, clear communication, and strict adherence to the steps are the three pillars of success. For new caregivers, it is strongly recommended to practice multiple times under the guidance of an occupational therapist or professional supplier. This caution and proficiency will ultimately serve as the best protection for both the user and the caregiver themselves.