I figured I could learn a lot.  Hence why I joined- since I only have six months experience. I'm only 20, but I still have trouble lifting residents that weigh more than me, so I understand. I think it depends upon how much more they weigh, how much they can help you themselves, and if you have another hand. For those patients who can't stand at all, and weigh a good amount, we have to use Hoyer (sp?) lifts- which I don't think would be easy/cheap/wise to get in home care. For those who can help- even if it's as simple as grabbing the side of the bed/chair/railing/etc, gait belts are a godsend. I'm sure if you buy a gait belt, it'll come with instructions on how to use it. I would advise using these when you do transfers because they are reliable in case of imbalances and falls. And I don't think they cost very much! Good tips: Use good body mechanics. Lift with the legs/thighs, and not the back. Face the person straight on and have them hold onto your elbows- not your neck! If they can help at all (and even if they can't) it helps to count to three out loud. If using a gait belt (make sure it doesn't slip too far under their arms) grip the sides and use it to hoist them. If not gait belt- give them a 'bear hug'. Be sure not to hoist them using their arms for fear of injury. If they can't stand at all, get the wheelchair as close to the bed- toilet as you can get with out tangling their legs up so you can easily slip them into bed/onto the toilet. And many times- it's smart to get someone to help you if at all possible. I'm sure you all know this- but just make sure you don't do something that can harm yourself as well. It'd be harder to help your loved ones if you hurt yourself. I hope these help. I may be young, but I'm not the strongest and these tips really help (especially the gait belt). They have a few other ways of transferring people (sorta like sliding boards) but I haven't experienced any of those just yet- but if I do I'll be sure to post about them. |
