Caregiver tips for lifting and transferring

Submitted by Emma Hamilton on Sat, 25/06/2011 - 5:42pm

Remember to keep back straight and support shoulders

Carer lifting up person from chair

As a caregiver you probably spend time lifting and transferring a person in your care. To avoid injuring yourself or someone else it's important to learn safe lifting techniques.

Ensuring you use proper lifting techniques, making the most of equipment and using good body mechanics will help keep you and the person in your care safe from harm.

Ask an occupational therapist or physiotherapist to show you the best way to transfer and lift a person. Keep in mind methods used for lifting and transferring will change over time.

Tips for transferring and lifting

Encourage a person to participate. Avoid doing the action for the person to save time. Ask a person to push up from the seat, move to the edge of the chair or hold on to the rail. It helps maintain their mobility and muscle strength.
Use transfer devices and lifting equipment. Make the most of slide sheets, pelican belts and lifters (hoist lifters & sling). Do not physically lift a person on your own.
Use proper body mechanics. Don't bend over or round out your back. Keep your back straight and bend at the knees. Support a person with one hand on their lower back and the other on their shoulder.
Prepare equipment and furniture. Ensure you have properly positioned walking frames, wheelchairs and furniture before you make the move.
Communicate all actions. Try counting to three to build momentum and ensure you move at the same time. Give simple instructions to someone with dementia or prompt a person to move. Try tapping a chair or walker.
Don't lift under the arms! Avoid pulling a person up under the arms as it can cause damage to the caregiver and care receiver.
Avoid twisting the body at the hips without moving the feet. If your transferring a person from one seat to another ensure you swivel at a right angle. Move your feet at the same time as your body and hips.