Standard Operating Guide for Hoyer Lifts: Ensuring Safe and Error-Free Transfers Every Time

Mastering the correct Hoyer Lift operating process is key to guaranteeing care safety and improving care quality. hoyer lift instructions This guide provides you with a complete standardized operating procedure, from preparation to post-operation follow-up.

Pre-Operation Preparation Phase

Environmental Safety Check

Clear all obstacles along the transfer path.

Ensure the floor is dry and level, and remove loose carpets.

Verify that target locations (beds, wheelchairs, toilets) are securely fixed.

Confirm there is sufficient operating space (a minimum of 1.5m × 1.5m is recommended).

Equipment Integrity Check

Inspect the sling for wear, tears, or deformation.

Confirm that all hook safety locks function properly.

Test the hydraulic system for smooth lifting and lowering.

Check that the base legs are fully extended and locked.

Ensure the wheels rotate flexibly and the brakes work effectively.

User Condition Assessment

Explain the transfer process and obtain the user’s understanding and consent.

Evaluate whether the user’s current physical condition is suitable for transfer.

Confirm the user’s clothing is flat and free of wrinkles.

Check the user’s skin condition, with special attention to pressure points.

10-Step Standard Operating Procedure

Step 1: Proper Sling Placement

Assist the user in turning to a side-lying position (if possible).

Lay the folded sling flat under the user’s back and buttocks.

Ensure the sling’s centerline aligns with the user’s spine.

Help the user return to a supine position and arrange the leg straps of the sling.

Adjust the sling to a comfortable position, avoiding wrinkles.

Step 2: Precise Equipment Positioning

Push the lift close to the bed edge at a 45-degree angle.

Ensure the base legs extend securely under the bed.

Step on the brakes for all wheels.

Adjust the boom to be directly above the user.

Confirm the equipment is stable and does not wobble.

Step 3: Confirm Safe Connections

Attach the sling to the lift following the "far-to-near" principle.

Listen for the "click" sound to confirm each hook is locked.

Double-check that all hooks are fully locked.

Ensure the sling bears weight evenly at all four corners.

Verify the sling position will not cause discomfort.

Step 4: Test Lift

Operate the lift slowly to raise the user slightly (5–10 cm).

Pause to check equipment stability and the user’s condition.

Continue lifting smoothly if no abnormalities are found.

Lift the user to a safely elevated height (15–20 cm above the bed surface).

Observe the user’s reaction to ensure comfort.

Step 5: Prepare for Equipment Movement

Confirm the transfer path is unobstructed.

Release the brakes for all wheels.

Adopt a stable pushing posture.

Prepare to start the smooth transfer.

Step 6: Execute Smooth Transfer

Push the equipment slowly at a constant speed.

The caregiver should walk backward to guide the lift while monitoring the path ahead.

Keep the equipment moving in a straight line and avoid sudden turns.

Move the user accurately to a position directly above the target location.

Step 7: Fine-Tune Positioning

Use the boom’s telescopic function (if available) to make minor position adjustments.

Ensure the user is directly above the target location.

Conduct a final check before lowering.

Step on the brakes to secure the equipment.

Step 8: Safe Lowering Process

Operate the lowering function slowly.

Pause briefly when approaching the contact surface (e.g., bed, wheelchair seat).

Make minor adjustments to ensure the user is seated accurately.

Lower the user completely and confirm they are in a stable sitting position.

Step 9: Disconnect in Sequence

Wait for the user to adjust to the new position.

Unhook the sling in the "near-to-far" order.

Ensure the hooks are placed safely to avoid injury.

Gently pull the sling out from under the user.
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Step 10: Post-Operation Tidy-Up

Assist the user in adjusting to a comfortable posture.

Push the equipment back to its storage location.

Clean and disinfect the used sling immediately.

Record key information about this operation.

Key Operating Points for Special Scenarios

Special Instructions for Wheelchair Transfers

Position the wheelchair at a 30-degree angle to the bed.

Remove the wheelchair armrests and footrests in advance.

Be careful to avoid the user’s knees colliding with the wheelchair.

Confirm the wheelchair brakes are locked before lowering the user.

Special Precautions for Bathroom Transfers

Use a dedicated toileting/bathing sling.

Ensure there is sufficient operating space around the toilet.

Pay special attention to floor anti-slip measures.

Prepare quick-cleaning supplies.

Operating Standards for Floor Rescue

Only use a dedicated floor rescue sling.

It is recommended that two caregivers operate together.

Adopt a phased lifting strategy.

Closely monitor the user’s physical condition.

In-Depth Analysis of Safety Standards

Ten Prohibited Actions

❌ Exceeding the equipment’s rated load capacity.

❌ Operating on sloped or slippery floors.

❌ Using worn or defective slings.

❌ Leaving a suspended user unattended.

❌ Operating the equipment without locking the brakes.

❌ Lifting/lowering too quickly or moving the equipment rapidly.

❌ Allowing the user’s body to collide with obstacles.

❌ Using non-original or uncertified accessories.

❌ Forcibly intervening manually while the equipment is in operation.

❌ Ignoring signals of pain or discomfort from the user.

Emergency Response Procedure

Stop operation immediately and reassure the user.

Evaluate the severity of the situation.

Activate the corresponding emergency plan.

Seek professional medical assistance if needed.

Record details of the incident for subsequent analysis.

Maintenance and Care Guide

Daily Maintenance Checklist

Clean the equipment surface after each use.

Inspect the sling for wear.

Test the function of the hydraulic system.

Confirm all safety devices are in normal condition.

Weekly In-Depth Inspection

Check for cracks or deformation in structural components.

Test the emergency lowering function.

Inspect the wheels for wear.

Confirm all labels are clearly readable.

Monthly Professional Maintenance

Conduct a comprehensive inspection by a qualified technician.

Check the hydraulic oil level and quality.

Test all mechanical connection points.

Perform a load test to verify performance.

Skill Improvement Recommendations

Basic Skill Mastery

Complete at least 8 hours of hands-on training.

Pass the assessment for the standard operating procedure.

Master emergency response methods.

Understand the basic principles of the equipment.

Advanced Skill Development

Learn techniques for handling special scenarios.

Master the multi-person collaborative operation process.

Develop risk assessment capabilities.

Improve communication and reassurance skills.

Continuous Learning Path

Attend refresher courses every six months.

Stay updated on equipment upgrades and technological developments.

Participate in user exchange meetings.

Learn the latest care knowledge.

Conclusion

Correct Hoyer Lift operation is not just a skill, but a responsibility. Every safe transfer is built on strict adherence to operating standards. hoyer lift instructions Through systematic learning, repeated practice, and continuous improvement, we can provide users with safe and comfortable transfer experiences. Remember: professionalism comes from attention to detail, and safety comes from compliance with standards. Let us use professional knowledge and a dedicated attitude to ensure every operation becomes a process of building safety and trust.