Development of a Semi-Automated Device to Lift and Transfer Bedridden Patients

Abstract

Transferring bedridden patients from one flat surface to another, i.e. from a bed to a stretcher or laboratory/theater bed, is one of crucial activities carried out in healthcare facilities. It is a physically challenging task with many concerns on patient’s safety and comfortability. None of the existing methods used for that task provides effective solution. Hence, this study aims at providing a mechanism to transfer bedridden patients with greater safety and comfort while reducing the human involvement. The study was carried out in four phases. Initially, data collection was carried out to identify variety of methods, devices used for patient transferring both locally and globally. Further, a survey was done to identify main factors affecting when performing a transfer by interviewing all stakeholders of the activity including doctors, nurses, attendants, lab technicians. Secondly, design phase was completed. Thirdly, designed device was fabricated and finally, it was tested to refine and improve further. Developed design is a semi-automated device which needs only one operator to operate. When using it, patient’s orientation is not required to change, and no any human effort needed. All the lifting and transferring movements are matched to standards given by WHO. Machine was tested using real size dummy as the patient and feedback was obtained from variety of medical staff involving with patient transferring. Qualitative data collection was done on performance. As per the feedback on testing, device is capable of providing a safe, comfortable and less physically demanding mechanism to transfer bedridden patients.