Many families caring for bedridden patients develop chronic back pain from repeatedly transferring the patient by hand every day. Other families are afraid of patient lifts (Hoyer Lifts) because they appear complicated and they fear dropping or injuring the patient. The truth is thata correctly used patient lift is far safer than manual lifting for both patients, by reducing the risk of injury from poor lifting positions, and caregivers, by reducing accumulated back strain that may lead to permanent injury. This article explains the correct method so both parties can stay safe.
Why Families Should Consider a Patient Lift — A Straight Answer
In brief: Repeatedly transferring a bedridden patient by hand every day is one of the leading causes of back injury among caregivers. Patients are also at risk of injury from being lifted in the wrong position or accidentally dropped. A patient lift distributes weight and controls movement far more precisely than manual lifting.
Many caregivers do not realize that repeatedly lifting a patient with poor technique gradually damages the spine until chronic back pain or a herniated disc develops. The problem may become severe enough that the caregiver also needs long-term treatment. Learning to use a patient lift early can therefore prevent a much larger problem.
The question should not be “Do we really need a patient lift?” but rather “How many more years can we keep transferring the patient this way without risking injury?” because caring for a bedridden patient is often a long-term responsibility, and the caregiver's long-term health must also be considered.
An important truth: A patient lift can also be dangerous when used incorrectly, especially if the sling is attached in the wrong position or stability is not checked before lifting. Learning the correct technique from a professional is therefore just as important as deciding to buy the equipment.
Correct vs Incorrect Use — A Direct Comparison
In brief: Correct use requires checking every connection before every lift without skipping steps, even after the process becomes familiar. The most common mistake is rushing and skipping checks because the caregiver has become accustomed to the routine.
What to do
✓Check the sling and hooks every time — before every lift, even if you have already done it hundreds of times
✓Explain the steps to the patient before lifting — this reduces fear and helps the patient cooperate
✓Lift slowly and monitor balance — never rush; protect the patient throughout the transfer
Common mistakes
✗Skipping checks because of haste or familiarity — the leading preventable cause of patient-lift accidents
✗Attaching the sling unevenly or too loosely — the patient may tilt or slip during lifting
✗Using the lift on an uneven or overly narrow surface — this increases the risk of the lift tilting or tipping during use
How to Use a Patient Lift Correctly
In brief: The safe process is to prepare the equipment and inspect every point, attach the sling evenly, lift slowly while observing the patient throughout, and lower the patient gently into the intended position.
1
Prepare and inspect before lifting
Check the sling, hooks, wheels, and surrounding area to make sure everything is safe and free of obstacles.
2
Attach the sling evenly
Position the sling symmetrically under the patient, secure every hook, and check all connections again before lifting.
3
Lift slowly and observe
Raise the patient a little at a time and check whether they feel secure. Stop immediately if anything appears abnormal.
Choose the Right Sling for Each Patient
In brief: Slings come in different designs for different needs, such as a full-body sling for a patient who cannot control their head or a half-body sling for a patient who can still sit steadily. Selecting a sling that matches the patient's condition directly affects safety.
Consult a professional to choose the sling size and type that match each patient's body weight and physical condition. A sling that is too loose or too tight can both increase the risk of harm during transfer.
“One daughter had cared for her bedridden mother for two years and developed chronic back pain severe enough to require treatment from an orthopaedic doctor. At first, she hesitated to buy a patient lift because she was afraid she would not know how to use it and might drop her mother. We taught her and practised with her until she felt confident. She can now transfer her mother comfortably without using as much physical force as before, and her own back pain has improved greatly. What I want every family to know is that investing the time to learn correct patient-lift use is genuinely worthwhile for the caregiver's long-term health.”
Branch Manager, KIN Physical Therapy Hospital, Sukhumvit 107; Registered Nurse
Maintaining a Patient Lift for Safe Use
In brief: Inspect the equipment regularly, clean the sling according to the instructions, and store it in a dry place away from moisture. A well-maintained lift operates more safely and lasts longer.
How KIN Helps Families with Patient Lifts
In brief: KIN nurses teach families how to use a patient lift correctly and safely at home and advise them on selecting a sling suited to each patient.
Reviewed by: Dr. Kamonchat Chokthanomsap, Medical License No. 40854 — Anti-Aging Medicine Physician and the KIN Multidisciplinary Team | Last updated: July 2026 | This information is for general education and does not replace hands-on training from a qualified professional before using a patient lift.
KIN HomeCare | Free Assessment
Our nursing team teaches safe patient-lift use at home
Frequently Asked Questions — Answered by the KIN Medical Team
Can one caregiver operate a patient lift alone?
Most patient lifts are designed for one caregiver to operate, which is one of their main advantages. However, while the caregiver is still learning, another person should assist with safety until the caregiver is confident.
What patient weight can a lift support?
Each model has a different weight limit. Check the equipment specifications and choose a model that safely supports the patient's weight. Avoid using a lift whose maximum capacity is too close to the patient's actual weight.
Can a patient lift be used in a bathroom?
Yes, but choose a model and sling suitable for wet areas and stable enough for the space. Consult a professional to select equipment specifically suited to bathroom use.
What should we do if the patient is afraid of the lift?
Fear is common at first. Explain every step before each lift and begin slowly and gently. As the patient becomes confident that the process is safe, the fear will gradually decrease.
Does KIN teach families to use a patient lift at home?
Yes. The KIN HomeCare nursing team demonstrates and practises correct patient-lift use with families until they feel confident and also advises them on choosing an appropriate sling.
