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Nurses on many inpatient units are taking patient care to new heights. Ceiling lifts installed on several Tower units make it easier for nurses to lift, boost and reposition patients with the press of a button.
“The lifts are a win for both staff and patients,” said Maryellen Cotter, RN, NP, director of Occupational Health Services. “These lifts help reduce staff injuries and make our patient stays more comfortable.”
Nurses on 8CD, the Cardiac Surgery ICU, piloted the lifts last year, and found that the new equipment made their jobs easier. They were able to move patients without calling other nurses for help. After the pilot, BWH purchased and installed lifts above patient beds on 8AB, 7CD, 3BC, 9CD and 15ABC.
The lifts consist of a large sling that lies flat underneath the patient. When a nurse is moving the patient, he or she attaches the four corners of the sling to an X-shaped bar that extends from the ceiling-mounted lift. When the sling is attached, the nurse electronically controls its movement around the room—from bed to chair, for example—as the patient comfortably sits upright in the sling.
The Lift Implementation Committee is considering other units that could benefit from these lifts, including testing areas. In addition, the Carl J. and Ruth Shapiro Cardiovascular Center will have lifts in every patient room when it opens in April 2008.