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Joerns
Healthcare
Hoyer® Sling Guide
redefining patient handling
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Hoyer
®
Sling Guide
Introduction
A sling is an item of moving and handling equipment, which is used with a mechanical lift
in order to facilitate the transfer of a resident. A sling comprises a specially designed and
constructed piece of fabric, which is placed under and around a resident before being
attached to the spreader bar/cradle of a lift to raise, transfer and lower the resident.
When selected and used correctly, a sling and lift will achieve a safer transfer, reducing
the risks associated with manual handling.
FIM Score
(Function Independence Measure)
A widely used assessment tool to classify a person’s function
from independence to total assistance in seven levels.
7. Complete Independence
Another person is not required for the activity which is performed safely without
modification or outside assistance within a reasonable time.
6. Modified Independence
Another person is not required for the activity but may need an assistive device,
more than reasonable time giving a risk consideration.
5. Supervision or set up
Someone required to help by observation, encouragement without contact.
4. Minimal Assistance
Someone required to help - by touching - subject makes 75% or more of the effort.
3. Moderate Assistance
Someone required to help by more than touching - subject makes 50% - 75% of the effort.
2. Maximal Assistance
Complete dependence. Subject makes less than 50% but at least 25% of effort.
1. Total Assistance
Complete dependence. Subject makes less than 25% of effort.
Please note that staff in ALL areas must have immediate access to at least one mobile
passive lift for use in the event of an emergency such as the retrieval of a fallen person.
A passive lift suitable for a very heavy person should also be accessible within the facility/
hospital, and all staff should be aware of the system for accessing the lift as required. For
example, in the event of an unplanned admission of a very heavy resident into Accident
and Emergency.
Please note:
It is very important to use the correct sized sling and ensure it is properly fitted before attempting to
lift. This will ensure the person being lifted feels safe, dignified and comfortable. It will also provide the
caregiver with confidence that they can achieve the transfer that they wish and that the procedure will be
executed in an effective and safe manner.This guide aims to assist those responsible for the provision
of slings by outlining some key factors to be addressed in the selection of the most appropriate type of
sling for a resident. Guidance is then given as to which sling from the HOYER range will best meet these
requirements. HOYER has an extensive range of slings. Our slings are a reflection on many years of
refinements that make our range one of the most comfortable and flexible in the market place today.
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Sling Guide
Sling Models
The Hoyer range of slings has been designed with a number of features aimed at meeting varied lifting requirements and applications.
Each sling is described briefly below. Note FIM scores have been provided as an assessment tool to classify a person’s function from
independence to total assistance in 7 levels.
Hoyer
®
Quick fit/Universal Sling
(Spreader Bar: 6 Point)
This sling is an easy-to-fit, general-purpose
sling designed to suit 85% of residents. It is
simple to use and is available in all sizes from
XS to XL. FIM Scores: 1 and 2 and any other
person from the floor
Quick Fit Deluxe Sling
(Spreader Bar: 6 Point)
This sling is a development of the Quick Fit
design and is suitable for 95% of residents.
It can be used for amputees following
assessment, and is available in all sizes from
XS to XL. FIM Scores: 1 and 2 and
any other person from the floor
Access/Toileting Sling
(Spreader Bar: 6 Point)
This sling is designed specifically to facilitate
the toileting procedure by allowing the removal
of clothing. It is NOT a general-purpose sling
and will suit only 25% of residents. Residents
must be in a sitting position to use this sling.
FIM Scores: 2 or 3 following
careful assessment
An assessment MUST be carried out when
using the access sling as it can be dangerous
when used on the wrong resident.
Full Back
(Spreader Bar: 6 Point)
This is a more specialized sling. It incorporates
integral boned head support and padded leg
pieces and is available in all sizes from XS to
XL. The correct size will fit snugly and give full
protection for residents who go into extension,
or have involuntary movements or behavioral
problems. FIM Scores: 1 and 2 and
any other person from the floor
Comfort Sling
(Cradle: 4 Point)
This is a more specialized sling. It allows
correct positioning to be made via the 4-point
cradle and uses the Securi3 sling connection
system ensuring no inadvertent detachment
of the sling from the cradle. It incorporates a
removable comfort pad for head support and
snuggles the resident providing full protection
for residents who go into extension or have
involuntary movements or behavioral problems.
It is available in all sizes from XS to XL.
FIM Scores: 1 and 2 and any other person
from the floor
Standing Sling (Stand-aid)
The standing sling is suitable for those
residents who have a greater degree of weight
bearing ability. It allows excellent access for
toileting and is easy to fit, providing quick and
effective transfers. The adjustable waist strap;
the non-slip back pad ensures the sling does
not ride up during the transfer. This sling can
be dangerous, however, when used with the
wrong resident, so a careful risk assessment is
advised. FIM Scores: 3 and 4
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Transport Sling
(Stand-aid)
The transport sling is suitable for those
residents with a degree of weight bearing
ability. It is easy to fit, allowing quick and
effective transfers. The adjustable waist strap.
FIM Scores: 2, 3 and 4
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Hoyer
®
Sling Guide
Hoyer Sling Features
Colored binding provides clear recognizable
size information.
Leg support widths (1) offer optimal support, while not cutting into the knee or groin area, and
modesty loops (2) stop the residents legs from splaying while transferring.
Colored loop straps, which provide adjustment
and the correct angle positioning for the 6-point
spreader bar system.
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Clear labels provide all the information required together with a line drawing showing how our slings fit.
2
Centerline markers aid the caregiver in the correct
positioning of the sling, especially when inserting
the sling before an off the bed or floor transfer.
4
Made from polyester, Hoyer slings are durable, soft and comfortable. Padding provides
additional comfort and support to delicate areas and our webbing straps have covered ends
to protect residents’ skin.
Head supports ensure correct
positioning during transfer.
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The angle of the straps has been carefully
calculated to ensure the correct posture
and comfort of the resident.
Mesh slings are ideal in wet environments,
providing rapid draining and drying.
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Hoyer
Sling Guide
HOYER has many common attributes that make our slings easier to use, and easier to train with.
Handles on the sides of our slings are optimized to ensure correct handling. The grey color of our
slings means contamination is easy to spot - but the polyester fabric isn’t prone to staining, and is
easily laundered.
Cradle Options
The Hoyer professional lift range has the option of two cradles that provide the caregiver greater choice in selecting the most appropriate sling and
cradle for the task. The Presence and Stature can be used with either the 6-point spreader bar or the 4-point positioning cradle.
The 6-point spreader bar uses slings with webbing loops,which allow positioning adjustments to be
made by selecting the different colored loops. The attachment straps at shoulder level determine
the position of the back, ranging from upright through to semi-reclined and reclined. Similarly, the
attachment straps at the legs determine the approximate degree of flexion at the hip, from
around 45° to 90°.
®
6-point spreader bar
4-point positioning cradle
The position achieved by adjusting the loops will depend upon the height and build of the resident.
The rule of thumb is the shorter the shoulder straps the more upright the resident will be.
Alternatively the 4-point positioning cradle uses the Securi3 safety clip system and adjustment is
made by rotating the cradle handle either down or up to obtain an upright or reclined position for
the resident.
Note: The Comfort sling utilizes the Securi3 clip system and this was especially designed to ensure
NO inadvertent detachment occurs. The 3 key stages assure the resident and caregiver of safety
and comfort positioning throughout the transfer.
Both cradles have their place, but more importantly it allows the caregiver to
choose exactly the correct sling for the resident and task in question.
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Hoyer
®
Sling Guide
Range of Sizes
Most slings are available in a range of sizes to accommodate variety in
height, shape and weight of residents. All these factors must be taken into
consideration when selecting the appropriate sling for the residents. Sizes
are available from XS to XL and full details on our slings can be found in
our order form.
Extra Small
XS
Small
S
Medium
M
Large
L
Extra Large
XL
Identification Label
The identification label provides essential information about the sling such as:
Care Instructions
Model reference number
•
Type of sling
•
Size
•
Testing mark CE or similar
•
Date of Manufacture
•
Note: Space provided for a unique Serial Number that enables traceability,
which can be used for inspection and audit records.
•
Safe Working Load (SWL)
•
Bar code
•
Identification picture
•
Weight Capacity
Stated on the label is the safe working load, 500 lbs.
Some slings vary, so always check the label before use.
User Guide
A detailed User Guide is provided with all slings. It contains
essential information concerning machine washing and general
care of the sling.
Sling Safety Information (guidance)
Maximum wash temp: 185°F (85°C), non-enzyme detergent
•
Wash 160°F (71°C) for 3 minutes
•
Wash 145°F (63°C) for 10 minutes
•
Do not tumble dry at high temp - Air dry, cool tumble dry or
•
dry at very low temperature
Ability to wash may help against MRSA
•
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Size & Weight Range Guide
(Approx.)
Please note the following sling guides are recommendations only. A
full risk assessment must be conducted before any sling is selected.
This will ensure safety for the resident and the caregiver.
Weight Recommendation Chart (GUIDE)
Low High Range
kg lb kg lb kg lb
XS
S
M
L
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16 35 45 100 29 65
34 75 68 150 34 75
57 125 91 200 34 75
80 175 136 300 57 125
Sling Range
Values shown: kgs/lbs
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Hoyer
Sling Guide
®
Other Considerations for Slings
Alternative fabrics are available as SPECIAL ORDERS. However, there is
an extended lead-time for these (typically 4-5 weeks). Consult your Hoyer
representative for details.
Special Slings
Special slings are “one-off” designs to meet specific requirements of
individual residents and can be made to order. The following specials can
be ordered.
Extend loop strap length to suit leg or shoulders
•
Add loop to suit
•
Remove head support
•
Taper leg section
•
Add lining to legs or body (synthetic fleece material)
•
•
Sling
Prescription
Sheets
Sling prescription sheets are
available upon request to facilitate
producing a special sling design.
Example of sling prescription form.
Sling Support Levels and
Commode Openings
Different types of slings provide different levels of support for the
resident being lifted. The support level is determined by the shape and
structure of the fabric, with the main body of the sling providing support
to the back and head (photo 1) and the leg straps providing support to
the thighs, hips and buttocks (photo 3/4). The shape of the sling will
also determine the presence and size of a commode opening.
(figure 2 below).
1
3 4
2
Clinical
Support/Advice
Clinicians are available upon
request to assist Joerns Healthcare
customers by providing clinical
information and advice in relation
to Hoyer slings and
other products.
Moving and Handling Training
The correct equipment coupled with appropriate training can help to
minimize the risks associated with manual handling. Joerns Healthcare
has developed a comprehensive range of moving and handling training
programs aimed at meeting the needs of all caregivers. Programs are
flexible, with courses designed to suit individual circumstances and needs.
The overall aim is to create “a safer environment”.
Selecting the Best Type of Sling
Selecting a sling for an individual resident involves more than simply
measuring their size and deciding what the sling will be used for.
Basic factors to take into consideration are the level of support required
from the sling and whether a commode opening is necessary. However,
to be sure that a sling meets specific requirements and is the most
appropriate sling available, many further aspects need to be considered
as part of the selection process. Some of these are discussed
briefly here.
Information about the task(s)
In order to be sure the sling selected will be suited to its required use, it
is necessary to determine the type of transfer task(s) desired, together
with the frequency with which they will occur. This relates closely to the
functional requirements of the sling. For instance: a sling that is to be
used for toileting will require a commode opening.
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Hoyer
®
Sling Guide
Information About the Caregiver(s)
When selecting slings, it is important to be mindful of the
person(s) who will be fitting the sling and using the lift. Their
abilities and limitations - especially experience and training - must
be considered. Some slings are more complicated than others to
fit and a caregiver may be reluctant to use a sling if the process
of fitting it is too complex. The number of caregivers available to
fit the sling as well as the total number of caregivers involved in a
residents’ care may also be important considerations - a range of
caregivers may have a range of capabilities.
Information About
Other Equipment
It is necessary to establish the sling’s compatibility with other
equipment, especially the lift and the lifting system. It is also
important to identify any associated equipment involved in
transfers, such as seating, beds, gurneys, toilets, and therapy
equipment, to ascertain that the lift and sling will work effectively
with these items.
Selecting the Type of Sling for
the Most Common Task
To simplify the process of sling selection, HOYER has developed
a chart to guide you in the appropriate use of each sling and task.
There will, of course, be exceptions to this guide, but this reference enables a view of what tasks can be completed.
1) Use only with a net version
Sling Type HOYER
Access Advance/
Quick Fit
Del
Quick Fit Advance/
Full Back Advance/
Comfort Stature
Standing Arise
Transport Arise
Lift
Presence
Advance/
Presence
Presence
Presence
Toilet Commode
to bath
n n n
n n n n
n n n n
n n n n
n n n n n
n n n n
n n n n
Chair
1
to Chair
Bed
to Chair
Floor
to Bed
Chair to
Commode
About Joerns Healthcare
Joerns Healthcare provides the complete solution to moving and
handling with a range of compatible lifts, slings and accessories
designed to meet the needs of both resident and caregiver.
Besides Hoyer slings, the Joerns Healthcare moving and
handling range includes:
Ceiling mounted lifts
•
Mobile lifts
•
Extended warranty and service options
•
Moving and handling training packages
•
We trust you have found this guide both useful and informative.
Joerns Healthcare Inc.
5001 Joerns Drive, Stevens Point WI 54481
(P) 800.826.0270 • (F) 800.457.8827
www.joerns.com • email: info@joerns.com
© 2007 Joerns Healthcare | Part# 6190024 RevB | DCO# 07-0588
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