John Lloyd, PhD CPE - A Clinical Evaluation of Ceiling Lifts - Lifting and Transfer Technology for the Future

John D. Lloyd, PhD, CPE
Board Certified Ergonomist

32824 Michigan Avenue
San Antonio, Florida 33576

Tel: 813-624-8986

A Clinical Evaluation of Ceiling Lifts - Lifting and Transfer Technology for the Future

Abstract: Ceiling-mounted lifting systems provide solutions for reducing work-related nursing injuries and enhancing comfort and dignity for persons with spinal cord injury/disorders (SCI/D). Although they are not new in Europe and Canada, studies on the capability of these devices to reduce injury have been limited. Villenueve, Goumain, and Elabidi (1294) reported a Quebec study that showed a significant reduction of injuries attributed to the use of ceiling track lifting devices as opposed to floor-based devices. In the US, the pioneering work of the Veterans Administration (VA) nurses in Florida on the use of the ceiling-mounted patient lift system was first reported by Tiesman, Nelson, Charney, and Siddharthan.(2002) at the VA Health Services Research Annual Meeting. The report highlighted the impact of this new lifting and transfer technology in the reduction of musculoskeletal injuries among nurses as well as the ease and safety of its use in a 60-bed long-term care unit. It was also noted in this report that studies performed elsewhere have observed a reduction in occupational accidents by 75% to 80% and an increase in personnel satisfaction.

A ceiling-mounted lift is installed with tracks that are secured into the beams to support the weight. It has a motor unit powered by battery that i5 attached to the track that raises and lowers the patient, who can then be moved along the track. A variety of sling designs and materials are available. According to Fragala (2001), “this lifting and transfer technology addresses two problems: the need to find a lift when and where you need one, and the need to push floor-based lifts from one place to another, sometimes over and around dangerous obstacles. Strategically positioned, the ceiling-mounted lift is designed to be available when and where you need it.” Despite the myriad of attributes of this technology, the majority of health care facilities are not equipped with ceiling lifts.

Please contact Dr. Lloyd for additional information