What is a Hoist Used For?
Hoists for health and social care use are generally supplied in two varieties, manual or powered. While manual hoists are easily transportable and less costly than fixed hoists, they can be somewhat cumbersome to use and are more susceptible to wear and tear.
Powered hoists, although expensive, are manufactured to be used with an energy source which may be through an electric socket or a battery/power pack.
As hoists are versatile, they are used to assist people in various circumstances. In hospitals and clinics, hoists can help medical staff move patients with minimal discomfort. This includes helping people bathe, lifting them in or out of bed and moving them around rooms. For general day-to-day use, hoists can be found at pools, in public toilets, schools, care homes and in the homes of the patient, to give a few examples.
Although certain hoists may seem straightforward and easy to use, it is essential that both the user and the carer receive appropriate health and safety training before the product is utilised. This is to minimise the risk of accidents, especially when caring for a patient with complex requirements. For more information on training to use assistive equipment, please take a look at our Training & Support pages.
Types of Hoists
There are five main types of hoists used in care environments:
- Pool hoists
- Bath hoists
- Hoist slings
- Ceiling hoists
- Mobile hoists
Pool Hoists
Pool Hoists are most commonly installed by pools in leisure centres, hotels and other communal areas where hot tubs, hydrotherapy pools, jacuzzis, public pools or spas exist. They are low maintenance products and can be used to hoist people above and below water. Some pool hoists can be permanently fixed to the poolside, while other products, such as the I-Swim Pool Hoist, are designed to be a mobile product.
Bath Hoists
These hoists are a necessity for many patients who struggle with mobility issues, including those who may be unable to wash without the aid of a carer. Bath Hoists can be utilised for any type of existing baths, which can save our customers from having to replace entire bath fixtures. Created with a stainless steel frame to prevent rusting, certain bath hoists are designed with the option to move hoist controls nearer to the bath user, which can provide more independence. Additionally, certain bathing hoists offer a 360 ̊rotating chair for ease of use in many locations.
Hoist Slings
Slings are not hoists in their own right but can be used with existing hoist mechanisms to transfer patients. You can find slings with added features to support the head and to secure the person for safe transfers.
Wealden Rehab currently offers:
Ceiling Hoists
Ceiling Hoists are highly sophisticated, permanent fixtures which are installed overhead with a track system. This effectively allows patients to be transferred with minimal discomfort and risk of injury. Ceiling hoists also increase floor space and certain models can also be height adjusted accordingly with the size of the room. Suitable for use in both public and private spaces, ceiling hoists can reduce the support required from carers.
Mobile Hoists
Mobile Hoists are primarily used in the moving and handling of patients. Unlike ceiling hoists, these products can be used for two purposes - to help with standing and lifting. Considerably less bulky than static products, mobile hoists are designed to be lightweight and easily transportable. With high weight capacities of up to 180kg, the hoists are often available in electric and hydraulic options. However, it is recommended that mobile hoists are to be used for short distances only - for example, to travel around a room or to get to and from a bath.
Further Reading
We understand that choosing your care equipment can be confusing, especially if you are responsible for purchasing for the first time. Here are a few more articles that can help you make your choice. Alternatively, you can contact us for more advice from a friendly member of staff.
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