Ceiling Lifts enable nurses to safely reposition turn and mobilize patients
CategoriesPatient Handling,  Slings and Lifts

Prioritizing Patient and Staff Safety in Modern Healthcare Facilities

In the high-stakes world of healthcare, prioritizing patient and staff safety should never be compromised. As medical professionals, we must ensure that our healthcare facilities are designed and constructed with this principle in mind. One effective way to achieve this is by incorporating Safe Patient Handling (SPH) solutions into our care protocols.

Introducing Overhead Patient Lifts

Overhead patient lifts, such as SPH Medical Inc.’s A-Series and C-Series, play a crucial role in enhancing patient care and caregiver safety. These state-of-the-art systems are designed to assist caregivers in safely transferring patients who are bed-bound or have difficulty moving, thereby reducing the risk of caregiver injuries.

The A-Series and C-Series lifts are particularly beneficial for patients of size. Their robust design and high weight capacity make them perfect for handling heavier patients securely and comfortably.

A Comprehensive Guide to A-Series and C-Series Overhead Patient Lifts
In the realm of patient care, the right equipment can make all the difference. SPH Medical’s overhead patient lifts are designed to provide unparalleled support for patients who require assistance transferring from one location to another due to physical disabilities or medical conditions. Today, we delve into the unique features and benefits of the A-Series A-625 model and the three models in the C-Series: C-450, C-625, and C-1000.

Elevate Patient Care with the A-625 Ceiling Lift by SPH Medical

Experience superior patient handling with the A-625 Ceiling Lift by SPH Medical, a product that is the epitome of innovation and efficiency. This professional-grade lift is designed with unique features to ensure safety, durability, and versatility.A-625 Ceiling Lifts reduce risk of injury to nurses and promote patient mobility

Antimicrobial Materials: A Shield Against Germs

The A-625 Ceiling Lift takes hygiene to new heights. Made with unique antimicrobial materials, it actively resists the growth of harmful bacteria, offering an extra layer of protection for both patients and caregivers.

Reinforced Strap Edges: Durability Guaranteed

Designed with longevity in mind, this lift boasts reinforced strap edges that significantly extend its lifespan. This feature ensures reliable performance over time, giving you peace of mind and maximum return on investment.

Versatile Compatibility: Accommodating Patients Up To 625 Pounds

The A-625 Ceiling Lift is a true workhorse. It’s compatible with different carry bars and can comfortably accommodate patients who weigh up to 625 pounds. This exceptional weight capacity makes it a versatile and practical option for various healthcare settings, including nursing homes.

Tilting Design Feature: Seamless Transfers

Ease of patient transfer is a paramount concern in any care setting. The A-625 Ceiling Lift addresses this issue with a revolutionary tilting design feature. This allows for easier, smoother transfers, enhancing patient comfort and caregiver efficiency.

Waterproof Hand Control Unit: User-Friendly Operation

The A-625 Ceiling Lift comes equipped with a waterproof, ergonomic hand control unit. This user-friendly device features a backlit LCD screen, enabling caregivers to manage all lift functions easily. This is convenience and control at your fingertips.The hand control for the A-625 ceiling lift

The A-625 Ceiling Lift by SPH Medical is more than just a lift; it’s a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence in patient care. With its unique features and robust design, it sets a new benchmark for safety, effectiveness, and ease of use. Elevate your patient care standards with the A-625 Ceiling Lift. Because when it comes to patient handling, we believe in nothing less than the best.

C-Series Overhead Patient Lifts: C-450, C-625, and C-1000 Models

The C-Series lifts take versatility to a whole new level. The C-450 model, with a weight capacity of 450lbs, is perfect for most standard patient transfers. The C-625, similar to the A-625, can handle up to 625lbs, providing robust support for larger patients. Lastly, the C-1000 model, with a staggering weight capacity of 1000lbs, is truly in a league of its own, designed to safely lift heavier patients with ease.The C-Series overhead lifts enable all day patient care while reducing risk of injury to nurses

A-Series vs. C-Series: A Comparative Analysis

While both the A-Series and C-Series lifts share the common goal of prioritizing patient and staff safety, they each offer unique benefits. The A-Series lifts stand out for their high-speed performance, ensuring swift transfers, while the C-Series lifts are celebrated for their versatility, catering to a wide range of patient weights and needs.

Track Options: Customized for Your Space

SPH Medical offers different track options to fit rooms of varying sizes. Whether you’re working with a smaller space or a larger area, there’s a track option that’s tailored to your needs. For an elegant, streamlined look, consider the flushmount track option. This design seamlessly integrates into your ceiling, providing a clean, finished look while maintaining full functionality.

SPH Medical’s A-Series and C-Series overhead patient lifts are more than just lifting devices. They’re a testament to our commitment to delivering safe, efficient, and dignified patient care. Whether your patient needs are standard or more complex, these overhead lifts offer the perfect solution. Choose the right model for your facility and witness the remarkable difference it makes in patient handling and care.

Breathable Repositioning Sheets: A Game-Changer

Paired with the overhead lifts are essential accessories like breathable repositioning sheets from SPH Medical. These sheets are designed to make boosting up in bed and patient turning easier and less uncomfortable. The use of these sheets significantly reduces the physical strain on caregivers, thereby lowering the risk of workplace injuries.

The Power of Mobile Lifts

In areas where overhead lifts are not feasible, mobile lifts come to the rescue. These portable devices are invaluable in providing safe and efficient assistance in routine transfers of patients. With their flexibility and ease of use, mobile lifts are an excellent addition to any healthcare facility.

Prioritizing Patient and Staff Safety: Facilitating Predictable Transfers

Air Powered Lateral transfer systems play a vital role in facilitating predictable lateral transfers, especially in the Operating Room. They enable the safe and efficient transfer of patients off to and from the OR table, enhancing patient comfort and reducing the risk of caregiver injuries.Reduce nursing injuries and achieve cost savings with Air Transfer Mats

Incorporating SPH solutions like overhead patient lifts, repositioning sheets, mobile lifts, and Air Powered Lateral transfer systems can transform the way we provide care. By prioritizing patient and staff safety, we can create a healthier, more productive healthcare environment. Let’s embrace these innovative solutions and set a new standard for patient care. Remember, protecting nursing staff from workplace injuries while also mobilizing patients safely improves patient outcomes and reduces overall healthcare costs.

Physical Therapists are supportive of Safe Patient Handling to promote functional improvement without risk of injury
Categoriesearly mobility,  Patient Handling,  Slings and Lifts

Championing Safe Patient Handling Practices and Early Patient Mobility

The American Physical Therapy Association: Championing Safe Patient Handling Practices and Early Patient Mobility

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), founded in 1921, has been instrumental in transforming lives and strengthening the physical therapy profession for over a century. With a mission rooted in improving the health and quality of life of individuals and communities, the APTA has consistently championed safe patient handling and early patient mobility practices across healthcare settings in the United States.

The Importance of Safe Patient Handling

Safe patient handling is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients. For providers, improper patient handling can lead to serious injuries, including musculoskeletal disorders. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare workers suffer from back injuries more than any other occupation2.

Patients are also at risk. Improper handling can result in falls, discomfort, and incorrect positioning, leading to potential complications and longer recovery times.

The APTA’s Role in Promoting Safe Practices

Recognizing these challenges, the APTA has devoted significant effort towards promoting safe patient handling. Their strategies encompass education, advocacy, and the promotion of innovative tools and techniques.

The APTA provides robust educational resources to healthcare professionals, including guidelines, webinars, and workshops. These resources focus on proper patient handling techniques, injury prevention, and the use of assistive equipment3.

In terms of advocacy, the APTA works tirelessly to promote policies and regulations that prioritize safe patient handling. They collaborate with healthcare organizations, policymakers, and other stakeholders to influence change at both the systemic and practice levels.

As part of their commitment to innovation, the APTA promotes the use of modern equipment and interventions that facilitate safe patient handling. These include lift aids, transfer devices, and other ergonomic solutions that reduce the physical strain on healthcare workers and enhance patient safety.

Reinforcing the Mission of the APTA

The APTA’s mission to improve patient safety through safe patient handling practices is more than just an organizational goal – it’s an essential component of a stronger, safer healthcare industry. By educating providers, advocating for better policies, and promoting innovative solutions, the APTA is leading the way towards safer patient handling and enhanced healthcare outcomes.

The work of the APTA serves as a reminder of the power of collective action in transforming healthcare practices. As we move forward, let us continue to support and champion these efforts, ensuring a safer and healthier future for all.

Early Mobility Walkers and Sit to Stand Lifts: Revolutionizing Patient Care

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the use of Early Mobility Walkers and Sit to Stand lifts in care facilities and hospitals. These devices are being championed by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and physical therapists across the nation as they work tirelessly to promote their patients’ functional goals.

The Power of Early Mobility Walkers

Early Mobility Walkers are designed to support patients who need assistance with weight-bearing. These devices are incredibly beneficial, providing stable support that enables patients to safely practice walking and balance training. They are particularly effective for individuals recovering from surgery or those with conditions that affect balance and mobility. By using these walkers, physical therapists can help patients regain confidence in their movements, promoting faster and safer recovery.

Sit to Stand Lifts: Promoting Independence

On the other hand, Sit to Stand lifts offer a lifeline for patients who may struggle with the simple yet critical task of standing up from a seated position. These lifts provide a safe and supportive mechanism that aids patients in achieving a standing position independently. This not only boosts the patient’s confidence but also helps maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility, which are crucial for overall mobility. The MiniLift 160 and MiniLift 200 offered by SPH Medical are two examples of powered sit to stand lifts used in healthcare facilities today.

Physical therapists leverage these devices to support their patients’ functional goals, enabling them to make strides towards independence in a safe and controlled manner. The use of Early Mobility Walkers and Sit to Stand lifts is a testament to the APTA’s commitment to advancing patient care through innovative solutions. SPH Medicals complete line of platform walkers like the Rise and Go, EVA Walker and, Bure XL Walker are good examples of early mobility walkers used in hospitals.

A Win-Win Scenario with Safe Patient Handling and Early Patient Mobility

The introduction of these interventions has proven to be a win-win scenario. They not only reduce hospital stays and associated costs but also significantly enhance the quality of life for patients. By promoting independence and mobility, these devices empower patients to reclaim their daily routines, marking a vital step in their journey towards full recovery.

In conclusion, the APTA and physical therapists continue to lead the way in revolutionizing patient care. Through the use of Early Mobility Walkers and Sit to Stand lifts, they are helping patients achieve their functional goals, underlining the power of innovation in enhancing healthcare outcomes.

Breathable Repositioning Sheets that are disposable
CategoriesInfection Prevention,  Patient Handling,  Slings and Lifts

The Importance of Disposable Repositioning Sheets for Patient Care

It is no secret that working as a nurse can be physically demanding and often leads to experiencing injuries while on the job. Preventing these disorders in nursing work environments should be a top priority. One way to reduce the risk of injury for nursing staff is through the implementation of appropriate patient lift systems, specifically disposable repositioning sheets. The disposable repositioning sheet has become increasingly popular in recent years due to their compatibility with any hook and loop patient lift, ability to reduce injury risk, and improve efficiency of patient care and comfort.

Disposable repositioning sheets are made of breathable material and are designed to work in combination with overhead patient or mobile lifts. They are ideal for patients who are unable to get out of bed or move on their own, and are used to help reposition or turn them in a manner that is safe for the patient and the nurse. Choosing the right sheet is important. The sheet should be designed to minimize friction and shear forces between the patient’s skin and the bed or other surface. This helps prevent skin breakdown and reduces the risk of pressure ulcers.Reduce Nursing Injuries when repositioning patients

Disposable sheets are an ideal solution for patient care in a hospital or long-term care facility. They are intended for single use, which makes it easy to reduce cross-contamination in patient rooms. They are also cost-effective, considering the overwhelming workload that nursing care professionals undergo every day. This, combined with the need for better patient comfort and reduced pressure ulcers, makes these sheets an essential addition to any nursing care environment.

One of the primary benefits of using disposable repositioning sheets is that they help to prevent injuries. Nurses and physical therapists who use these sheets report that they have experienced fewer injuries as a result. In fact, the right sheet can even help nurses avoid injuries in the long-term by reducing the physical strain of the job on the body.

Another benefit of using disposable repositioning sheets is that they help streamline the patient care process. Using mechanical assistance to reposition and turn patients makes the tasks easier and more efficient for nurses. This helps nurses to do their jobs better and faster, which in turn can have a positive impact on patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the disposable repositioning sheet has become an essential tool for nursing care professionals. The right sheet can provide the necessary support for patients, reduce the risk of injuries to nurses, and streamline the patient care process. Choosing high-quality sheets is important and is a decision that should be based on careful consideration of the needs of the patient and the nursing environment. By using these sheets, nursing professionals can provide better patient care with fewer risks of injury to themselves. Overall, nurses and physical therapists must continue to adapt to using new and innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes and work conditions.

Disposable Repositioning Sheets prevent back injuries

Contact SPH Medical today to get a quote for single patient use repositioning sheets.

Reduce Nursing Injuries when repositioning patients
CategoriesPatient Handling,  Slings and Lifts

Revolutionizing Patient Care with Disposable Repositioning Sheets

Nursing is a demanding and physically taxing profession. Nurses are on their feet for hours at a time and are required to lift and move patients often. As a result, injuries are not uncommon in the nursing field. However, the good news is that these injuries can be avoided through the use of proper patient lift systems. In recent years, disposable repositioning sheets have emerged as a popular solution due to their ability to improve the efficiency of patient care while also reducing the risk of injury.

Disposable repositioning sheets are specially designed to work in combination with overhead patient lifts or mobile lifts. They are made from breathable materials that are soft to the touch, making them a comfortable option for patients. The sheets are compatible with any hook and loop patient lift, making them an easy addition to any medical facility. By using mechanical assistance to reposition and turn patients, nurses can avoid injuries caused by excessive physical strain.

Choosing the right sheet is critical in ensuring the safety of both the patient and the nurse. Nurses and physical therapists should choose sheets that are made from high-quality materials and are durable enough to withstand regular use. The sheets should also have sufficient weight capacity to accommodate patients of varying weights and sizes. Using appropriate patient lift systems that are compatible with disposable repositioning sheets is also essential.

Disposable repositioning sheets are not only beneficial for preventing nursing injuries but also for improving the efficiency of patient care. The sheets allow for smoother and more efficient patient repositioning, turning, and other common nursing tasks. A few other tasks that nurses perform include changing bed linen in an occupied bed. Changing bed linen is typically a manual process of logrolling the patient back and forth to remove the old sheets while placing the new ones. With a repositioning sheet and a patient lift, the patient can be turned using the lift! This virtually eliminates the risk of injury to the nurse. Turning a patient every two hours is also another common nursing task. Nurses turn patients to offload pressure on bony prominences like the coccyx and the hips and shoulders. With a repositioning sheet one nurse can safely turn a patient, even a morbidly obese patient safely and they don’t have to wait for 3 other nurse to come help them! The repositioning sheet also provide a provides a breathable surface that allows moisture to pass through further reducing the risk of skin damage or bedsores.

Not all repositioning sheets are created the same however. Some sheets include horizontal straps that are sewn onto the sheet from side to side to create the loops that attach to the lift. These straps are typically on the under side of the sheet, but when a patient is lying on the sheet the straps create additional unwanted pressure on the patients’ skin.

SPH Medical has been working to continually improve patient care and improve outcomes while reducing risk of injury to nursing staff and therapists. The breathable repositioning sheet was born out of the desire to address the number one cause of injury which is repositioning in bed. This task is also known as boosting. In the old days nurses would say we had to drag them up in bed as they used the bed sheets or draw sheet to do just that. However the breathable repositioning sheet is now the nurses best tool for efficiency, safety, and improved patient care.

There are a few key features that set this sheet apart from other disposable or single patient use sheets on the market today. The SPH Medical breathable repositioning sheet has been tested to meet the needs of leading ICU’s, Critical Care floors, Med Surgical units and more. A few key features are:

  • 1000lb weight capacity – So all patients of any size can be boosted or turned
  • 6 straps on either side
  • 3 color coded destination loops within each strap
  • No straps underneath the patient – so no additional pressure!
  • Tested for breathability (MVT) and pressure mapped
  • Approved by WOCN wound care nurses across the country!
  • Compatible with all hook and loop lift systems

Of course one possible concern about disposable repositioning sheets is their potential environmental impact. However, many companies are working to reduce the impact by creating eco-friendly materials that can be easily disposed of without harm to the environment. Additionally, many hospitals and care facilities have implemented recycling and programs or reprocessing programs to reduce the amount of waste generated.

In conclusion, nursing injuries can be prevented with the proper use of patient lift systems combined with the optimal breathable repositioning sheet. Disposable repositioning sheets have emerged as a popular evidence-based solution that significantly reduces the risk of injury while also improving patient skin integrity and comfort. Nurses and physical therapists should choose sheets that are made from high-quality materials, have sufficient weight capacity, and are compatible with their hook and loop style patient lift systems. Eco-friendly options are available, and recycling programs can be implemented to reduce the environmental impact. By prioritizing patient and caregiver safety, healthcare facilities can create safer and more efficient working environments for all nurses, nurse assistants, therapists, and other technical employees that involved with direct patient care.

Repositioning Sheet reduces risk of injury to Nurses
CategoriesInfection Prevention,  Patient Handling,  Slings and Lifts

The Importance of Disposable Repositioning Sheets in Reducing Injury Risk for Nurses

Patient Lifting and Disposable Repositioning Sheets

Nursing is a demanding profession that often requires the physical lifting and repositioning of patients. Unfortunately, this task can lead to injuries for nurses, many of which can be prevented through the implementation of the appropriate patient lift systems. An increasingly popular solution is the use of disposable repositioning sheets. These sheets can greatly reduce the risk of injury while simultaneously improving the efficiency of patient care and patient comfort. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of using disposable repositioning sheets and how to choose the right one.

One of the significant benefits of using disposable repositioning sheets is the reduction of injury risk for nurses. By utilizing mechanical assistance to reposition and turn patients, nurses can avoid the physical strain that often leads to musculoskeletal disorders. Musculoskeletal disorders are the leading cause of injury for healthcare workers, with approximately $7 billion in workers’ compensation costs incurred each year. By using disposable repositioning sheets, these costs can be minimized while simultaneously improving patient care.

When choosing a disposable repositioning sheet, it’s essential to consider its breathability. Sheets that are not breathable can lead to heat and moisture build up and skin breakdown for patients. The most popular materials for disposable sheets are non-woven, cotton-poly blend, spun-bound material, or combinations of both. SPH Medical offers single patient use sheets that have been tested to ensure they are breathable, comfortable, and offer the necessary durability required for efficient patient repositioning.  In addition they offer a 1000lb weight capacity to ensure all patients can be safety repositioned and turned.

Another important factor to consider when selecting disposable repositioning sheets is its size. Sheets come in a variety of sizes, and selecting the appropriate size is crucial to ensure the patient’s maximum comfort and safety. Sheets that are too small can cause friction and skin irritation, while sheets that are too large can drape too far over the edge of the bed and straps can touch the floor.  SPH Medical offers three sizes of breathable repositioning sheets to fit every need.

Disposable repositioning sheets also offer clinicians the convenience they need. They are easy to stock as a supply item and can be kept on the unit for easy access. Sheets can be disposed of after they are used, eliminating the need for laundering, which can be time-consuming and costly.Reduce risk of Injury to Nurses during repositioning

How many hospital owned specialty items get lost in the dreaded laundry system? Some hospitals report loosing hundreds of thousands of dollars of launderable slings and sheets in the laundry. The challenge has been primarily with outside laundry service providers.  They don’t take responsibility for customer owned goods and charge a significant amount per item to launder them.  The disposable nature of the sheets also prevents cross-contamination between patients and contributes to maintaining a cleaner and safer environment for nurses and patients.

Disposable repositioning sheets are gaining popularity because of their ability to reduce injury risks for healthcare workers while improving patient comfort and care. In this blog post, we’ve discussed the benefits of using disposable repositioning sheets, including their breathability, appropriate sizing, and convenience. Selecting the right sheet for each patient is important, and those who work in the nursing profession should ensure that they have access to these sheets in on the hospital floor where they are needed on a daily basis to provide the best patient care possible, boosting and turning patients.  Nurses are important to the hospital and so is their safety and well being.  Using breathable repositioning sheets is a wise investment for hospitals who care about the safety of their nurses and patients.

Visit the product page to learn more about SPH Medical’s breathable repositioning sheet which has now become the standard of care for many leading hospitals across the country.

Nurses are still getting injured while catching a falling patient. Use the EPD for improved safety during epidurals.
Categoriesair transfer systems,  Infection Prevention,  Patient Handling,  Slings and Lifts

Why Are Nurses Still Getting Injured?

Healthcare workers and nurses in hospitals and nursing homes are susceptible to musculoskeletal injuries because for the most part they are still manually repositioning and moving patients. The high frequency of manually lifting moving and transferring patients poses many risks to the nurses. This is now a well known and well documented risk, and yet still a question; why are nurses still getting injured?  The VA Patient Center of Inquiry began researching healthcare worker injuries decades ago and determined that safe and ergonomically designed assistive equipment both improves patient care and minimizes musculoskeletal nursing injury to caregivers.

The SPH Medical Air Transfer and Positioning Mat is the ideal solution for mostSPU Breathable Air Transfer Mattress reduces nurse injuries hospital wide safe patient handling programs to help nurses avoid many of the predictable patient handling tasks.  The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends that healthcare workers lift a maximum of 35 pounds. That means no more than 35 pound per person if one or two nurses are helping a patient.  Most patients weigh above 180 pounds and manually lifting them, or attempting to reposition them up in bed, causes overexertion, sprains, strains, and may lead to a career ending back injury.

With the alarming fact that nurses still getting injured in a work environment, SPH Medical decided to do something about it. That’s where SPH Medical Air Transfer and Positioning Mat makes a measurable difference in hospital departments. This tool is integrated into everyday patient care to support the safe handling of patients. It also eliminates the need for manual patient transfers and mitigates the risks of nurses’ injuries. Nurses and healthcare workers can use the SPH Medical Air Transfer and Positioning Mat in the following circumstances:

Repositioning of Patients

Repositioning is the general task of caring for a bed ridden patient by boosting or turning them or any other in bed positioning. The primary purpose of repositioning patients in bed is often to alleviate pressure on their tissues and bony prominences to prevent the development of pressure ulcers. Nurses are required to change the position of a patient after every two hours.

This process is also known as boosting up in bed a patient. Bed-ridden patients who have slid down the bed need boosting up in bed to acquire proper alignment and prevent bed sores.

The activity is high-risk and will cause repositioning injury if the appropriate slings, sheets, and lifts are not used. The awkward healthcare worker’s posture and the patient’s weight may contribute to musculoskeletal injuries. Since the task is performed several times a day, it increases the likelihood of injuries.

The Disposable Air Transfer System provides nurses with a seamless and safe way to move patients. The mattress is inflated by a blower to release air out of the bottom via the multiple small pin holes. This creates a thin layer of air at the bottom of the mattress which minimizes friction. Less lifting and pulling are indispensable, thus posing minimal risks to patients and nurses.

Nurses Still Getting Injured During The Lateral Transfer

Lateral transfer is moving patients from one surface or bed to another. The traditional way of pulling patients using sliding boards or draw sheets is quite dangerous. Many nurses still getting injured when transferring a patient. According to the National Library of Medicine, 97.3% of the nurses lodged a complaint of work-related pain in a research on work-related musculoskeletal pain occurrence.

Air Powered transfer systems are the most preferred tools in lateral transfer. They make a thin air cushion at the inflated mattress’s bottom. This method helps minimize friction and ensure patients stay afloat as they are transferred from one surface to another.

Top Advantages of the Air Transfer Systems

  • Disposable Items: The Transfer Mats are for single-use and are disposable types. Although they are labeled as disposable, you can use them on one patient multiple times until they no longer need them or are soiled. Thus they prevent cross-contamination and hospital-acquired disease transmission.
  • No Need for Laundry: Laundry does not offer 100% bacteria elimination, especially when under substandard conditions. The fabric slings are made of porous materials, and bacteria and pathogens can be trapped in the crannies and nooks. Using such slings on patients makes them vulnerable to infections. But the disposable repositioning sheets and slings don’t require laundry and you can dispose them after use.
  • Offers Better Management of Inventory: The single-use mats and slings are easier to monitor and relatively accessible. Also, health workers don’t have to wait for 3- days for the slings and sheets to be laundered and returned to the hospital. In the long run, they offer ultimate convenience.
  • Designed with the Safety of Nurses and Patients in Mind: Manual handling of patients causes strains, sprains, and low back pain for the nurses. The old-fashioned method also causes friction and tissue damage in patients. But the Air Transfer System reduces the need to lift and pull patients, thus preventing common musculoskeletal disorders. They are also designed with breathable and soft materials that do not irritate the patients.

SPH Medical’s assistive solutions minimize injuries and pain for nurses and patients. There are essential items for nursing facilities and medical centers that assist in preventing nurse injury, repositioning, and boosting up in bed of patients.

Nurses are still getting injured from repositioning but not when using SPH Medicals breathable repositioning sheet.

Single Patient Use Slings are a cost effective way to reduce risk of injury to nurses.
CategoriesSlings and Lifts

Single Patient Use Slings Reduce Injuries

Single Patient Use Slings and Repositioning Sheets in Hospitals

Repositioning sheets are specialized slings that are used to reposition patients in their beds. They are especially beneficial in hospital units that have total care patients (patients who are bed bound and are unable to turn themselves in bed and need full nursing assistance). Since the patient can’t move or position themselves, it’s the nurse’s duty to reposition them every two hours to prevent the development of pressure ulcers. However, patient repositioning is one of the major causes of nursing injuries. Thankfully, SPH Medical solves this problem by providing hospitals and healthcare facilities with a broad range of single patient use slings and repositioning sheets. They also equip facilities with overhead ceiling lifts and mobile lifts, which are essential for the effective use of the sheets.  The goal of using patient lift equipment is to reduce the risk of injury to nursing staff by eliminating manual patient handling.  OSHA safe lifting guidelines state that nurses shouldn’t be lifting more than 35 pounds, and yet most patients are 180- 250 pounds on average, and many are much heavier.

The benefit of having a breathable repositioning sheet is that it can remain under the patient, and since it connects to the overhead or mobile lift, boosting or turning patients is safe and easier for nursing staff. They can also hold the patient in a side-lying position for cleaning or wound dressing changes. These sheets are also used to transfer patients from bed to a stretcher or to assist with linen changes.

What are Single Patient Use Repositioning Sheets?

A single patient use slings and repositioning sheets (SPU) are a sheet that’s used by a single patient. These are considered disposable but they can be used multiple times with the same patient until they are either soiled, no longer needed due to changing patient conditions or upon patient discharge.  Caregivers often use these sheets in hospitals and nursing homes to improve safety and patient care. The purpose of the sheet is primarily to eliminate the manual lifting that typically occurs with the high frequency task of repositioning and turning patients in bed.  However, given that it enables more efficient boosting and turning one could say that patients are more likely to repositioned which protects patients’ skin.

There are various types of slings including the highback disposable sling and the universal sling, even amputee slings and commode slings. The highback sling is the most common type of seated style lifting sling as it offers extra support to the head in case the patient doesn’t have good head or neck control. This type of sling is often the standard of care in hospitals because it accommodates all patients. Seated position slings are designed to assist with lifting and transferring patients from bed to chair, and back, or over to a wheelchair or toilet.

Single patient use repositioning sheets are made of a safe breathable material for the patient and are comfortable to lie on. Since the sheet is made of a soft cotton/poly blend material, it’s does not cause any irritation to the patients’ skin. Moreover, it’s designed to be used by only one patient and this ensures that the there is reduced risk that the patient is exposed to cross contamination from other slings or sheets that are used with other patients.

Comparison between Launderable and Single Patient Use Slings

Disposable slings, or SPU slings, are more cost effective than launderable slings when considering all of the benefits that they offer in terms of risk reduction and injury prevention.  For starters, ordering these slings is generally easier as they become a standard supply item.  Once on hand you can easily track the available stock and therefore their usage. What’s more, unlike their counterparts, you don’t have to deal with long laundry processes or slings getting lost in the laundry system.

There are many reasons why the disposable options are better for patient care. One of the primary benefits of disposable slings and repositioning sheets is that they reduce the risk of Healthcare Associated Infections or HAI’s.  Remember, when using launderable slings, they are often reused between multiple patients without properly being disinfected.  How does a nurse properly disinfect a fabric sling at the hospital instead of sending it to the laundry?  It’s not an easy task because fabric slings are porous and pathogens can hide in the nooks and crannies of the sling.  Fabric slings should go to the laundry so the concern about infection prevention can properly be addressed.  The laundry system whether inhouse our through an outside service provider generally takes 3-5 days to return specialty items, in this case slings, back to the hospital for distribution.  This turn around time can be a major contributor to staff injuries if slings are not available.  On the other hand, the disposable slings are easily ordered, pulled from the shelf, and are only used by one patient. Therefore, in the long run, single patient use slings and repositioning slings are safer from an infection prevention and injury prevention perspective.

The Benefits of Single Patient Use Slings and Repositioning Sheets

SPH Medical's Repositioning Sheets improve patient care and reduce risk of injury.  Patients in the ICU or critical care units within a hospital can benefit from using disposable repositioning sheets. These sheets are designed for single-patient use and help make the formerly manual process of repositioning and turning more comfortable and efficient. Some of the benefits of using a disposable repositioning sheet include the following:

  • Increased Patient Comfort

    Disposable repositioning sheets can help increase patients’ comfort during in bed repositioning and turning as well as transfers from bed to gurney or bed to CT table.

  • Improved efficiency

    Using a disposable repositioning sheet improves the efficiency of medical procedures. By using mechanical assistance like an overhead lift during repositioning tasks nurses can easily boost a patient alone or with a second nurse where in the past they would need at least two to four nurses to perform the same task.

  • Reduced Risk of Infection

    One of the main benefits of using a disposable sheet or disposable sling is that it reduces the risk of cross-contamination since each patient is assigned their own sheet or sling.  Some laundry systems don’t use the appropriate temperature to kill pathogens and this can lead to Healthcare Associated Infections.

  • Protects Nurses from Injuries

    The predictable high frequency of lifting and transferring patients has been well documented to be dangerous to the nurse. Therefore, appropriate lifting equipment is absolutely essential to prevent a nursing injury. A single-patient use sling’s design allows ease-use by the nurse, preventing overexertion, strains and sprains, and career ending back injuries,

  • Easy to Order and Keep Inventory

    Lastly, ordering and managing single-patient use sling stock is simple. You can easily track and record what’s available within the facility. This contrasts with launderable slings, which need to be properly cleaned and disinfected. Unfortunately these expensive slings have been known to get lost in the laundry.

SPH Medical Disposable Sheets

SPH Medical prioritizes patient care, and that’s why they have a wide range of disposable repositioning sheets. Using disposable repositioning sheets is the new trend in hospitals and healthcare centers. They offer many cost effective, safe solutions for lifting, moving, and transferring patients. Most importantly, they reduce the risk of cross-infection and injuries while improving patient care.

The sheets available here are suitable for all mobile and overhead lifts. They come in various sizes and styles to meet every patient’s needs and care settings. Repositioning sheets from SPH Medical are made of a breathable material, so they can remain under the patient for an extended period of time and are considered just as safe as hospital bed linen. Visit the official SPH medical website to check the complete portfolio of single patient use slings and single patient use air transfer and positioning mattresses.

SPH Medical's Repositioning Sheets improve patient care and reduce risk of injury.
CategoriesSlings and Lifts

Single Patient Use Slings Improve Patient Care

Reduce injuries and improve patient care with SPH Medical's single patient use air transfer mattress

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.

Disposable Slings Improve Patient Care and reduce cross contamination

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.

Improve patient care with SPH Medical Single Patient Use disposable slings

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.

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