I would agree with Lar, Nuno84, the risk to both the individual and the people assisting in moving and handling when that individual is largely unable to help him or herself is infinitely greater to all than using a hoist (by which I am assuming you mean a mobile hoist) or any other equipment intended to help in this. Hoists are perfectly safe but staff do need to be properly trained, confident and competent in use of this equipment. They need to be alert at all times, for a variety of reasons you rarely get a text book ‘lift.’ They also need to understand that a hoist is not meant to be used to get from one end of the building or room to the other. A hoist is for the safe transfer of an individual from say the toilet to a wheelchair. or from a wheelchair to an armchair. There should also be a moving and handling form completed for each individual stating how they should be moved.
I think the home should be more afraid of injury claims by the hoist not being used than if it is used by well trained staff. If they are saying this is a growing trend in care homes, I think that is indeed a cause for serious concern.
Tot
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