Single Patient Use Slings and Repositioning Sheets in Hospitals
Single-patient use (SPU) slings are disposable accessories used with patient lift systems in hospitals and nursing homes to lift, move, and transfer patients. These slings are designed for single patient use and are an essential tool in reducing the risk of cross-contamination and the transmission of infections between patients and overall improving patient care. Although they are only assigned to and used by one patient, they can often be used multiple times throughout the patients’ length of stay.
Repositioning sheets are disposable accessories used in hospitals to assist with moving and transferring patients. These sheets are designed to provide additional support and stability during patient transfers and can be used with single-patient use (SPU) slings or other lifting equipment.
Repositioning Sheets Help Improve Patient Care
Repositioning sheets can provide additional support and stability for patients, making it easier for healthcare staff to move them safely and comfortably. One of the main benefits of repositioning sheets is the reduced risk of injury to healthcare workers. Lifting and transferring patients can be physically demanding, and the use of appropriate equipment can help to prevent injuries.
Repositioning sheets can be particularly useful for patients who may be bed bound and can’t move or reposition themselves in bed without assistance. These sheets can provide a comfortable and breathable surface for patients to lie on, making it easier for them to be repositioned or turned as needed with the use of mobile lifts or ceiling lifts.
In addition to reducing the risk of injury to nurses, repositioning sheets can also help improve patients’ skin care by improving the frequency of repositioning patients in bed. By enabling patients to be turned every two hours and boosted up in bed with ease, these sheets can help to prevent the development of pressure ulcers and other complications associated with prolonged bed rest.
There are several benefits to using SPU slings and repositioning sheets in hospitals and nursing homes. One of the main advantages is infection control. Reusable slings can harbor bacteria and other pathogens, even after proper cleaning and disinfection. Using disposable slings reduces the risk of cross-contamination and the transmission of infections between patients.
One of the main advantages of using SPU slings is the ease of managing inventory and ordering. These slings can be easily tracked and kept in stock, ensuring they are always available when needed. In contrast, reusable slings must be cleaned and disinfected after each use, which can be time-consuming and may result in delays if laundered slings are not immediately available.
Another benefit of SPU slings is the reduced risk of injury to healthcare workers. Lifting and transferring patients can be physically demanding, and appropriate lifting equipment is essential to prevent injuries. Reusable slings may become worn or damaged over time, increasing the risk of injury to nurses and other healthcare staff. Replacing launderable slings that have gone missing can be expensive and often requires a large capital budget and lengthy approval process. In contrast, SPU slings can be quickly and easily replaced, ensuring that patients are always supported safely and securely.
Injury prevention is a critical concern for hospitals and nursing homes, as the cost of a nursing injury can be high. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), a nursing injury’s direct and indirect costs can range from $5,500 to $40,000 per incident. Using slings in combination with the appropriate patient lift equipment, hospitals and nursing homes can help reduce the risk of injuries to their staff and minimize the associated costs.
SPH Medical Improving Patient Care
SPH Medical offers an extensive portfolio of SPU slings compatible with mobile and overhead patient lift systems. These slings are available in various sizes and styles to meet the needs of different patients and care settings. In addition, SPH Medical offers a breathable repositioning sheet that can be used for repositioning patients up in bed for extended periods, up to every two hours.
Using disposable slings and repositioning sheets can be a cost-effective and safe solution for hospitals and nursing homes looking to lift, move, and transfer patients. By reducing the risk of cross-contamination and injury, these products can help to improve patient care and reduce costs associated with hospital-acquired infections and nursing injuries.
If you are interested in learning more about single-patient use (SPU) slings and repositioning sheets for use in hospitals and nursing homes, we encourage you to visit SPH Medical. SPH Medical is a leading provider of safe patient handling and mobility solutions, with an extensive portfolio of products designed to improve patient care and safety.
