Prototype of a piece of clothing for patients for quick and easy patient mobilizations in healthcare facilities

Abstract

Caregivers are exposed to musculoskeletal strains during patient mobilizations. Especially for patient transfers, hoists were developed, but hoists have a low acceptance and when used incorrectly strains are still high. This paper develops a user-centered prototype to increase the use of hoists. The developed prototype is based on a market comparison, workflow analyses (n = 88), semi-structured interviews (n = 10) and a usability test with caregivers (n = 12). Instead of slings, the prototype lifts patients directly by their clothing. This reduces the transfer time and the steps required to lift a patient. The usability and the caregiver acceptance is high. Improvements address patients' comfort.