A Beginner’s Guide To Lifting And Moving A Bed Bound Loved One

It’s not easy to lift and shift a bed-bound family member without experience. Moving a bed-bound loved one would have you twisting and taking awkward postures, putting you at risk of slipping and skin bruising. It can also put your loved one at risk of falls which may result in other complications.

On the other hand, medical professionals like nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists are trained to lift patients safely. They understand that following safety guidelines creates a smooth transfer of patients. The process can prove helpful when attempting to lift a loved one.

So, to guide you step by step towards assisting a family member, Maritona Health Services, Inc. has put together a beginner’s guide to lifting and moving a bed-bound loved one. By following this guide, you will understand how to quickly move your loved one in and out of bed without injuring your loved one or yourself.

Getting Started

Assess the patient’s size: Assess the patient’s weight to have an idea of the amount of energy you’d be exerting.

Examine your environment: Assess your environment to ensure a clear path. An object on the floor can cause you to lose your footing, which could lead to a fall.

Move close enough to the patient: If you lift and hold them from far away, the chances of you straining your back are high.

Next Steps

Maintain your stance: Bend your knees, taking up a semi-squat position, and don’t bend your back and neck. Keep your feet apart, widening the space between both feet. It will increase your balance and reduce the tendency of falls.

Lift the patient safely: Raise the patient smoothly, simultaneously rising to an erect standing position. Keep your abdominal muscles firm and tight, which will help protect your weaker back muscles.

Now how to turn: Turn by moving your feet instead of twisting your body. When twisting, you limit the weight you can carry to 1/3 of what you’d be able to lift when standing straight.

Advice From The Pros

Communicate with the patient: Tell them what you’re about to do. Ask them to be cooperative by putting in as much effort as possible to ease the process.

Be conscious of pain: Be mindful of any injury or pain the patient faces. If you rigorously move sensitive areas while lifting, it can lead to an aggravation of the pain. So, ensure you communicate with them before lifting to be aware of injuries.

Don’t rush: Follow the above instructions as carefully as you can. Please seek assistance if you see that the patient’s weight is too much for you to lift.

Get in touch with us today!

At Maritona Health Services, Inc., our goal is to exceed your expectations. As the go-to experts in Fort Bend County, Texas, for all your Home Health Care Assistant needs, you can feel confident that our caregivers will look after your dependents compassionately.

We specialize in skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, pediatric care, personal care, and resident care.

We serve clients across Brazoria, Colorado, Galveston, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Waller, Wharton, Chambers County, Fort Bend County, Harris County, Walker County, and the Surrounding areas. Visit our website to learn more, or contact Maritona Health Services, Inc. today by calling (832) 451-6172. Alternatively, you can email maritonahealthservices@gmail.com.