When most people think of hoists, they picture them solely for moving someone from a bed to a chair. But in reality, hoists are more than just a transfer tool, they’re an essential part of improving patient care, protecting caregivers, and supporting rehabilitation.
We work closely with OTs, physios and care teams across New Zealand to help select the right hoisting solutions for each individual whether it’s a portable gantry hoist or a permanent ceiling hoist system for daily use.
Here’s how hoists can support more than just movement:
Promote Safer Handling
Hoists reduce the risk of musculoskeletal strain by safely lifting and repositioning patients. Gantry hoists, in particular offer a flexible solution in environments where ceiling installation isn’t feasible, such as rental properties, short-term rehabilitation, or multi-purpose rooms. They provide the same safety benefits without permanent infrastructure.
Enhance Hygiene
Ceiling and gantry hoists play a key role in daily care routines like showering, toileting and dressing. Ceiling hoists deliver seamless integration into bathrooms for routine care, and gantry hoists with waterproof sling options provide portable hygiene assistance where fixed installations are not feasible.
Support Pressure Care and Repositioning
Regular repositioning is essential to pressure injuries and promote skin health. Ceiling hoist facilitate effortless repositioning throughout the room, while gantry hoists can be moved to support repositioning in multiple locations, ensuring ongoing pressure care even in varied environments.
Aid Rehabilitation and Recovery
Hoists aren’t just passive devices, they can also be used to support active movement, such a sit-to-stand exercised or gradual mobility training. A mobile gantry hoist paired with a rehabilitation sling can enable therapists to work with uses in a various locations perfect for community rehab programs or home visits.
Hoists are more than just tools for moving – they’re essential to delivering safe, person-centred care. Whether it’s enhancing hygiene routines, preventing injuries, or enabling participation in rehab, portable gantry hoists bring added flexibility and freedom to environments where ceiling tracks aren’t possible.
Let us help you find the right solution because safe, empowering care should be available anywhere it’s needed.
References:
1. Fragala, G., & Bailey, L. (2003). Addressing occupational hazards in patient handling and movement: A guide for caregivers. AAOHN Journal, 51(6), 247–253.
2. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2006). Safe Patient Handling and Movement.
3. Sackley, C. M., et al. (2006). Rehabilitation therapy for stroke patients living at home: A systematic review. Clinical Rehabilitation, 20(7), 563–571. https://doi.org/10.1191/0269215506cr999oa
4. Department of Health (UK). (2007). Moving and handling patients: A literature review.
