Bariatric Transfer & Manual Handling

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Scales
Bariatric hoists
Other transfer aids

Scales

It is essential to have accurate scales available so that proper care can be given to bariatric patients. This is in order to assess which equipment can be safely used for transport, etc, without risk to either carer or patient.

For patients with limited mobility, a wheelchair scale (right) is safer and easier. This one is a precision mechanical scale. Digital electronic versions are also available.

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Bariatric hoists

Hoisting systems are available from a number of suppliers, to meet the needs of heavier patients.

The three basic hoisting types - ceiling-track mounted, freestanding mobile and portable gantry type, are all available to transport heavier loads.

For information about the various options, visit our hoisting section.

A weighing scale is often available as a hoist accessory, so that patients' weight can be monitored.

Bariatric slings are also available either from the hoist manufacturer or a specialist sling supplier, to work with the hoist.

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Other transfer aids

Apart from hoists, there are a number of other aids to assist with transfers of bariatric patients.

For short transfers, simple equipment, such as a heavy duty transfer board (right) can facilitate moves from wheelchair to easychair, bed to wheelchair, etc. This type of aid is only likely to be suitable for patients at the lower end of the obesity scale, and care should always be taken to minimise manual handling for the safety of both carer and patient.

For patients who can weight-bear, at least for a short time, a heavy duty standing transfer aid may be suitable.

It can be used to move a patient from a sitting to standing position, or to transfer them in a standing or sitting position, with the addition of appropriate slings or support belts.

Transfer systems are also available which enable a patient with very limited, or no mobility, to be transferred in either a lying or sitting position.

For repositioning immobile bariatric patients in bed, a heavyweight repositioning sheet, which remains on the bed, is most convenient. Used ideally in conjunction with an overhead hoist, the repositioning sheet enables one carer to move and turn a patient safely.

An emergency lifting cushion, designed for raising a fallen but uninjured person from the floor, can be used for patients weighing up to 70 stone.

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