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Why choose a ceiling track hoist?

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Posted on by Liz.Lepley

Safe patient transfers

Ceiling track hoists provide a safe and comfortable method for transferring patients. A person can be positioned more easily using the ceiling track hoist, as they can be raised, lowered, turned, and traversed with no physical effort from the caregiver. This reduces the risk of injury to both patients and caregivers. A secure and stable hoist system will move clients smoothly and efficiently, minimising physical strain on the caregiver.

Increased efficiency

Ceiling track hoists are always accessible where you need them. This means caregivers are more likely to use them instead of a mobile hoist, which may not be immediately accessible. This results in faster and more efficient patient transfers, minimising the time and effort necessary for each transfer. Such efficiency can enhance productivity and reduce patient waiting times.

Lady being hoisted in a Care-ability CA701 sling with a ceiling track hoist.
Ceiling track hoist in a Changing Rooms bathroom (1)

Ceiling track hoist versatility

A ceiling track hoist is ideal for various care environments, from hospitals and care homes to private residences. With numerous hoist systems and accessories available, we can install tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of any care setting. Furthermore, you can use the same hoist can for transfers between the floor and chair, chair and shower stretcher, raised bath, or bed.

Space-saving​

Ceiling track hoists occupy minimal floor space, making them ideal for restricted areas such as toilets or small bathrooms where a mobile hoist might be challenging to manoeuvre. This can help improve accessibility and make it easier to provide high-quality care in challenging environments.

Improved client experience

A ceiling track hoist can lift higher than a mobile hoist and can, in most cases, be operated by a single person. It operates via a handset, leaving the caregiver free to assist the client at all times. This enables closer contact between the user and the caregiver, offering a more personalised and dignified experience than other solutions.

Clients report feeling more secure because they do not experience any sudden movements. The Freeway Transactive Xtra and Freeway TX Advanced models have ‘soft start’ as a standard feature, meaning that the hoist gradually builds up to its full speed and virtually eliminates jerking.

Cost-effective

While ceiling track hoists may require an initial investment, they can be a cost-effective long-term solution for patient transfer. By reducing the risk of injury and increasing efficiency, they can help to improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for additional staffing or equipment. Ceiling track hoists are covered by a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG), and Prism Medical UK is a government-approved provider of DFG-approved fixed equipment solutions. Find out if you could be eligible for a DFG grant.

An image of a caregiver and client, adopting a single-handed care approach using the Freeway TX Advanced and a sling to transfer the client from a bed.
Render of a potential ceiling track hoist install.

Ceiling Track Hoist Installation flexibility

Prism Medical UK also installs and maintains ceiling track hoists. Our engineers can install a simple straight-track or H-system in just a few hours. A more complex system can cover whole floors of buildings and allow transfer at any point. Our Major Projects team can support the delivery of large-scale or complex builds. They have also been involved in several Changing Places developments.

Improved quality of life

Installing a hoist can often allow a person to stay in or return to their home when hospitalisation or long-term care would otherwise be necessary. In some cases, the hoist offers an opportunity for greater independence. Both factors contribute to improved quality of life and well-being.

You may like to read “Ceiling Track Hoist Installation Case Story: Adapting for Accessibility and Family Care for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)“.

Ceiling track hoist installation tailored to your needs

With a wide range of installation components, we can create a customised system to suit your home or care facility. Our free consultation thoroughly assesses the client’s mobility requirements, the caregiver’s needs, and the environment. This ensures we recommend and install the ideal solution. Arrange your free assessment today.

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Ceiling Track Hoist Installation Case Story: Adapting for Accessibility and Family Care for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

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Posted on by Liz.Lepley

The Situation

Clare* was seeking advice and support for her mother, Helen*, who has Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She was preparing for her mother to move into a specially designed garden room at their Wakefield home. To ensure proper care for Helen, they needed a suitable hoist to safely transfer her between the living area, bedroom, and bathroom. However, installing the hoist into a portable timber cabin presented a significant challenge, as the walls and ceiling could not support the loads created by a traditional ceiling track hoist installation.

The Approach

Our local assessor, Gary Swain, visited the family with the Authority’s Disability Projects Officer (DPO) to see whether we could install a ceiling track hoist within the prefabricated timber building. The family had recently installed the garden room to enable Helen to live freely in her own environment with the reassurance of having her daughter and family close by to provide round-the-clock support.

Although the annex was in good condition and installed securely on a concrete base, Gary quickly recognised that several significant issues would need to be addressed before installing a hoist.

  • The cabin’s structure (timber clad and mounted on a steel sub-frame, resting on a concrete base) was assessed as unsuitable to carry the load caused by a ceiling track hoist.
  • The ceiling height within the cabin was severely limited, meaning that transfers may be limited due to restricted height.
  • The assessment of the client’s needs indicated that a hoist with a 130kg capacity would be required.

The Plan

Working with the family, the projects officer, and external building contractors, Gary designed an internal steel frame to carry the hoist and client’s load. By creating a standalone frame anchored to the concrete base, Helen could hoist safely without loading and compromising the cabin’s structure.

It was also agreed that the cabin’s low false ceiling would be removed to provide extra height to allow the hoist to work effectively.

Gary provided a preliminary sketch (Figure 1) outlining the additional steelwork, electrical connection and hoist installation. He then worked with the supplier to ensure the new steelwork was fabricated to the correct dimensions and specifications to support the load and avoid corrosion or tarnishing.

Preliminary sketch for a ceiling track installation.
Figure 1 Preliminary sketch.

The Solution

A builder completed the work to add the new galvanised steel supports (Figure 2), remove the old ceiling, install the electrical supply, and restore the cabin’s interior.

 

Prism Medical’s specialist programme team coordinated the ceiling track hoist installation, meaning our hoist engineers could quickly follow once the primary works were finished. The hoist, which was also tested to meet all regulatory requirements, was installed in less than a day, enabling Helen to move into her purpose-built garden room close to her daughter and family.

Steelwork fitted for a track hoist.
Figure 2 The innovative steel framework provides a secure fixing for the hoist gantry and ensures that the cabin’s frame or cladding does not take any of the hoist's loading.

The Outcome

The design and installation of Helen’s new hoist required careful coordination between Prism Medical, the council, and the builder, with the family and carers involved at each stage.

Most importantly, Helen has been able to remain comfortable, cared for, and safe in her familiar environment within her daughter’s family home.

Weight testing the newly installed ceiling track hoist.
Figure 3 The newly installed hoist undergoing load testing in the freshly decorated bedroom area.

*Client names have been changed to protect the identity of the individuals.

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Prism Plus: Prism Healthcare Group’s one-stop solution for bariatric needs

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Posted on by Liz.Lepley

In 2016, around 13% of adults worldwide were affected by obesity, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO, 2021), characterising an abnormal excess of body fat posing health risks. Epidemiological studies indicate a steady rise in obesity prevalence in recent decades, reaching epidemic levels (Großschädl & Stronegger, 2019; NCD-RisC, 2017), with projections indicating a continued increase (Thomas et al., 2014).

The prevalence of obesity among residents in nursing homes is also on the rise, potentially impacting required nursing care, facility provisions, and morbidity rates. A US study revealed a significant increase in obesity prevalence among newly admitted nursing home residents, rising from 16.9% to 25.8% over ten years (Cai, Rahman et al., 2013). Additionally, residents with moderate or severe obesity had a 15.0% higher likelihood of developing pressure ulcers compared to non-obese residents in the same facility, highlighting associated health risks.

Woburn Ultimate bed frame
Prism A320B bariatric mobile hoist

Unfortunately, increased body mass often leads to reduced mobility, complicating care tasks such as repositioning and increasing the risk of secondary health issues, all contributing to pressure ulcer development risk factors.

Ensuring accessible care for all is paramount, particularly in private and non-purpose-built nursing homes. Considering these statistics, it’s evident that plus-sized patients require specialised care with the appropriate equipment. However, this presents its own challenges for both care homes and community equipment providers.

Sourcing the required equipment can be challenging. This leads to many care providers lacking the necessary equipment to support bariatric individuals, especially in larger quantities. This impacts timely care delivery, care home admissions, and patient discharge from hospitals.

Residences may also face infrastructure limitations hindering care for plus sized individuals further complicating care provision. Acute care environments recommend spacious rooms for plus sized patients, posing a further challenge for many long-term care settings (Muir, 2009).

At Prism Healthcare Group, we are dedicated to easing the burden of sourcing and fitting bariatric equipment, allowing caregivers to concentrate on delivering high-quality care. Our Prism Plus line features an extensive range of bariatric products designed to streamline selection, backed by knowledgeable customer service and sales teams ready to address any challenges.

Our products are designed to enhance the quality of life for residents and caregivers, ensuring equitable access to care and support.

For more information on Prism Plus products, please visit the Prism Healthcare website.

Arden Bariatric Rise and Recliner Chair

References

Großschädl, F., Schoberer, D., Eglseer, D., Lohrmann, C., Everink, I., Gordon, A. L., Schols, J. M. G. A., & Bauer, S. (2023). Obesity and its associated factors in older nursing home residents in three European countries—Secondary data analyses from the “International Prevalence Measurement of Care Quality”. International Journal of Older People Nursing, 18, e12530. 

Cai, S., M. Rahman and O. Intrator (2013). “Obesity and pressure ulcers among nursing home residents.” Medical care 51(6): 478-486.

Muir, M. (2009) “Space Planning for the Bariatric Patient.” Bariatric Times.

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Navigating Challenges in Social Care: Promoting Safe Moving and Handling Techniques

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Posted on by Liz.Lepley

Elderly people sat around a table, while nejoying playing a board game.As society ages, the demand for day-to-day living support continues to rise. However, social care faces challenges amidst this growing need, particularly with funding cuts that have led to staff shortages and reduced training opportunities. In navigating these troubled waters, ensuring the safety and well-being of carers and those they support becomes paramount. If you have concerns regarding the safe handling of a loved one, we encourage you to contact your local social services department and request an Occupational Therapy review of the moving and handling risk assessment and plan.

The Importance of Proper Lifting Techniques

A woman with a pained expression, holding her back.In healthcare environments, moving and lifting individuals is a common task that demands precision and care. Any ‘caregiver’ that needs to move or lift a person is at a high risk of lumbar complaints or disorders.1 When performed correctly, it enhances independence and quality of life while minimising the risk of injury.2 A 2013 study testing different patient transfer types showed that the lumbar load was considerably reduced when using optimised techniques or assistance aids.3 However, inadequate training and improper techniques can result in accidents and discomfort for carers and clients.

An elderly lady being lifted from a reclining shower chair by use of a mobile hoist and sling.

Examples of moving and handling in a health and social care environment include helping a client with the following:

  • Sitting, standing or walking
  • Sitting up or getting in or out of bed
  • Using a toilet or a commode
  • With bathing
  • Following a fall

Understanding Controversial Lifting Techniques

While no techniques are classified as illegal in the UK, some methods, often called “Controversial Lifts,” pose significant risks and should not be used in normal care settings. These techniques, such as the Drag Lift or Australian Lift, can strain the carer and the client, potentially leading to injuries and a loss of dignity. As such, they are reserved for use in emergencies, where an individual’s life is at risk.

Drag Lift

A woman helping a man stand up, by placing her arm under his.Also known as the underarm lift, this is when the client is lifted or supported under the armpit. It is typically used to lift someone up the bed, support them from sitting to standing or help them from the floor. It is done by hooking the elbow around the client’s arm, just under the armpit, and dragging them to the desired position.

The drag lift does not promote active movement from the client and may encourage more passive behaviour, potentially leading to increased dependence.

This approach puts extreme strain on the client’s shoulder and the carer’s back. It can also create shear forces, leading to skin damage.

Australian Lift

Also known as the shoulder lift, this is typically used to help the client sit up in bed. The Australian lift takes two carers, one on either side. Each carer places a shoulder under the client’s armpit and hoists them up. The patient is then dragged backwards towards the headboard.

As with the drag lift, this approach can unnecessarily strain the client’s shoulder and the carer’s back. As the client is dragged back towards the headboard, the carers are moving backwards, leading to an increased chance of falls and injuries.

Orthodox Lift

Also known as the cradle, traditional or armchair lift, this is another lift that takes two carers. A carer stands on either side of the client, and they join hands to form a cradle with their hands, arms and wrists.

This approach puts excess strain on the carer’s arms and back and presents a high risk of dropping the client.

Combined Lift

Another lift for two carers, in which one uses their shoulder to lift, and the other places their hand on the client’s sacrum. They place a sling under the person’s thighs with their free hand to prepare them for a mechanical lift.

Although a sling is recommended when lifting, the combined lift is a poor method of placing the sling. This approach can lead to skin damage through shear forces and puts extreme strain on the client’s shoulder and the carer’s back.

Bear Hug Lift

Somenone being helped up from a wheelchair. The wheelchair user is placing their arms around the carers neck. The carer has their arms either side of the users torso.

The Bear Hug Lift assists a person from seated to standing. The carer leans forward, squatting and reaching forward under the person’s armpits, before standing to lift the person.

This approach puts unnecessary pressure on the caregiver and makes it hard for the person to stand under their own strength, as there is limited space around their feet.

Neck Hold

The Neck Hold is another method to assist a person from seated to standing. In this approach, the person puts their arms around the neck of the carer, relying on the carer’s momentum as they rise to pull the person to a standing position.

This approach puts a lot of strain on the carer’s neck, and there is a high risk of injury if either person loses their balance.

A carer helping an elderly lady to walk by linking arms.

Flip Turn on a Bed

To roll a person onto their side in bed, it is necessary to have the person close to the carer, allowing them to be rolled away in one simple movement. However, to get the person close, the carer is reaching out, taking the load at a distance from the body and increasing the risk of strain.

Walking a Person Linking Arms

When transferring someone across short distances, the carer may be tempted to link arms with the client. However, the carer risks taking most of the client’s body weight, and if one of them stumbles, both will likely fall and potentially injure themselves.

The Importance of Training and Equipment

To mitigate risks and promote safe lifting practices, comprehensive training and the use of appropriate equipment are essential3. Investing in regular Moving and Handling training ensures that carers stay updated on the latest techniques, empowering them to provide effective care while prioritising safety.

Recommended Publications and Resources

  • The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides valuable guidance on moving and handling in health and social care environments.1
  • Organisations like HME Training and Athena Handling Ltd offer a range of courses tailored to the needs of healthcare professionals, ensuring they have the necessary skills to handle lifting tasks safely and efficiently.
  • Various moving and handling equipment, including mobile hoists, ceiling track hoists, and stand and transfer aids, support individuals’ safe lifting and transfer. Proper selection and use of equipment can significantly reduce the risk of injuries3. Prism Medical UK equipment features a QR code, which, when scanned, will take users to an electronic version of the user manual, meaning that instructions on proper use are always available.

Summary

As we continue to navigate the complexities of social care, prioritising safe lifting practices is crucial. By investing in training and using appropriate equipment, we can ensure the well-being of carers and those they support, fostering independence and dignity in healthcare environments.

References

  1. Smith J. (2005) The Guide to the Handling of People. 5th edn. Teddington, UK: National Back Pain Association and Royal College of Nursing.
  2. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – Moving and handling in health and social care. https://www.hse.gov.uk/healthservices/moving-handling.htm
  3. Jäger, M., Jordan, C., Theilmeier, A., Wortmann, N., Kuhn, S., Nienhaus, A., & Luttmann, A. (2013). Lumbar-Load Analysis of Manual Patient-Handling Activities for Biomechanical Overload Prevention Among Healthcare Workers. The Annals of Occupational Hygiene, 57(4), 528-544. https://doi.org/10.1093/annhyg/mes088
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Navigating Safety: Exploring The Prism Evacuation System

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Posted on by Liz.Lepley

In times of emergency, the safety and well-being of individuals with limited mobility is paramount. The Prism Evacuation System is a reliable solution when evacuating those in need.

1. What is the Prism Evacuation System?

The Prism Evacuation System is a specialised apparatus designed to ensure the swift and secure evacuation of individuals with limited mobility during emergencies. While emergency evacuations may be infrequent occurrences, it is vital to be prepared. This system has been meticulously crafted to provide a seamless and efficient means of transferring individuals to safety, particularly those with limited mobility.

Prism Evacuation System
The Prism Evacuation System allows for efficient transfer during an emergency.
Prism Evacuation System
The individual needing evacuation can be comfortably secured using the adjustable straps

2. How does the Prism Evacuation System work?

During an evacuation scenario, the Prism Evacuation System comes into its own by facilitating a safe and swift transfer process. The individual in need of evacuation can be comfortably secured within the system using its adjustable straps, after which they can be smoothly transported to a place of safety. Whether transitioning from a bed or another surface, the Prism Evacuation System provides the necessary support and ease of transfer, ensuring the user remains stable throughout the process.

The system incorporates bone supports, enhancing the protection and support offered during evacuation procedures.

3. What are the features and benefits of the Prism Evacuation System?

The Prism Evacuation System boasts a range of features that make it an ideal solution for emergency evacuations:

  • Safety First: With a robust, safe working load of 190 kg (30 stone), the system offers peace of mind to users and caregivers, ensuring safe and secure transfers.
  • Comfort and Security: The system is designed for user comfort, featuring adjustable padding that enhances comfort and safety during evacuation.
  • Multiple Grip Points: Vertical and horizontal looped handles are incorporated, providing caregivers with various secure grip points for more controlled and safer transfers.
  • Adaptability: The adjustable straps of the Prism Evacuation System can accommodate individuals of varying sizes, ensuring that it can be effectively used for a wide range of patients.
  • Hygiene and Maintenance: For ease of use and upkeep, the system is easily wiped clean, maintaining hygiene standards in all situations.
  • Compact and Convenient: When not in use, the Prism Evacuation System can be neatly stored in its carry case, ensuring that it is readily accessible when needed most.
Prism Evacuation System
Prism Evacuation System

The Prism Evacuation System offers a lifeline during emergencies, providing a secure and efficient means of evacuation. Whether in a healthcare facility, residential setting, or any environment where mobility is restricted, the Prism Evacuation System stands ready to ensure that those in need are swiftly and safely transported to safety.

Find out more about the Prism Evacuation System.

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Bathing made easier with our new Freeway Flow shower cradle

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Posted on by Liz.Lepley

Prism Medical UK is pleased to add Freeway Flow to its range of bathing aids. The new tilting shower cradle provides a secure and stable platform for showering, making it particularly advantageous for the elderly or disabled.

Freeway Flow shower cradleThe shower cradle is the natural progression for individuals who require more support and stability than a traditional shower chair can provide. Available in various widths, the cradle is designed to fit most showers and comes with a range of features that make it both comfortable and hygienic.

The shower cradle is easy to install and use, with a range of features that make it a comprehensive solution. These features include service-free, anti-tangle swivel castors that provide a smooth and effortless ride, an obvious red brake lever that makes it easy to tell whether the brake has been applied, and a hand lever tilting mechanism that allows the frame to tilt from 5 to 35 degrees, providing greater comfort and support for the user. The height-adjustable frame allows for manual height adjustment to three set heights in increments of 25mm, providing greater flexibility for the user.

Benefits of the Freeway Flow shower cradle include:

  • High quality – Manufactured in the UK from UK-sourced raw materials.
  • Durable – Built-to-last, stainless steel frame with non-rust components and long-lasting mesh.
  • Hygienic – Antimicrobial powder coating prevents the growth of harmful bacteria, while the removable cover is machine washable and easy to wipe clean.
  • Easy to use – Simple to operate hand lever and dual gas struts provide a smooth, reliable tilt. The colour-coded fabric helps to identify the fabric size quickly.
  • Service free – Anti-tangle castors prevent dirt and hair from clogging the wheels.
  • Comfort – The quick-drying mesh offers a comfortable resting position, and various sizes are available to suit the user.
  • Flexibility –The height can be changed to suit the environment and user needs and various accessories can be added to provide additional comfort and security.

Optional accessories include:

  • Padded upper or lower-side rail for an increased feeling of security
  • Head cushion for added comfort
  • Lap belt for additional security
  • Commode pan and tray kit
  • Aperture hole opening to allow for the addition of a commode pan

Overall, the shower cradle is an excellent option for individuals with limited mobility who want to maintain independence and dignity while bathing. Its various features, including the swivel castors, tilting mechanism, height-adjustable frame and removable mesh fabric, make it a versatile and convenient accessory for any bathroom.

If you’d like to learn more, please visit our Freeway Flow shower cradle page or get in touch.

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Introducing our Simplified Warranty: 5-Year Coverage on an Extensive Range of Products!

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Posted on by Liz.Lepley

We are confident in the exceptional quality of our UK-manufactured products, which is why we are proud to offer a 5-year warranty on an extensive range of Prism Medical UK equipment. Our new simplified offering means that from 1st April, all products will be covered by a 12-month or 5-year warranty.

Most of our products will have an impressive 5-year warranty, giving you peace of mind. Products covered by the 5-year warranty include:

5 Year Warranty
Freeway SA180C Stand Aid

Our reliable 12-month warranty will still cover our range of textile products. We understand that different products have different needs and want to ensure our customers get the coverage they deserve.

As a UK manufacturer, we are committed to providing quality products. We are thrilled to offer this simplified warranty to our customers and can’t wait for you to experience the benefits first-hand. Please shop confidently, knowing that we are committed to customer satisfaction.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your local representative.

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New and improved height adjustable Freeway shower chair with anti-tangle castors

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Posted on by Liz.Lepley
Prism Medical UK is pleased to be able to offer additional features to our popular Freeway shower chair range.

With its modular design, the Freeway Height Adjustable shower chair is a highly versatile assistant-propelled shower, toilet or commode chair and is available in various widths.

The design features anti-tangle swivel castors, which provide a smoother ride for the user and include an obvious red brake lever making it easy to see if the brake has been applied. The castor design also prevents the build-up of dirt and hair, ensuring the wheels don’t become blocked and reducing the need for ongoing maintenance.

Freeway T40 height-adjustable shower chair with anti-tangle castors
Freeway Height Adjustable shower chair
Benefits of the Freeway Height Adjustable shower chair:
  • High quality – Manufactured in the UK from UK-sourced raw materials.
  • Durable – Built-to-last, robot-welded steel frame and non-rust components.
  • Hygienic – Antimicrobial powder coating prevents the growth of harmful bacteria.
  • Service free – Anti-tangle castors prevent dirt and hair from clogging the wheels.
  • Modular design – Allows total configuration to suit the client’s needs.
  • Cost-effective – Parts can be easily added or changed to suit the client’s changing needs.
  • Comfort – A variety of seat options and sizes are available.
Configuration options on the Freeway Height Adjustable include:
  • Height-adjustable frame – The chair’s seat height can be adjusted from 510mm to 560mm in 25mm increments. This makes it easier to use with toilets of varying sizes, so it can be used to care for people with multiple needs and locations.
  • Seat choices – A range of options are available, including width, type and cover. This gives maximum comfort to the user and can be easily changed later.
  • Additional accessories – Various backrest, armrest and footrest options are available, allowing you to design a chair that meets the client’s needs and works in the space available.
If you’d like to learn more, please visit our website’s Freeway Height Adjustable shower chair page or get in touch.
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