The challenging task of lifting incapacitated patients in and out of their beds has been made easier at the general rehabilitation unit of St Mary’s Hospital, Isle of Wight, thanks to a £9,000 donation from the hospital’s Friends.
One of the hospital’s most sophisticated patient hoists is now in regular use at the unit, which cares for up to 30 patients.
Image: Ward sister Natalie Mew operates the new hoist, with health care assistant ‘Maddy’ Rackett in the hoist’s sling, beside Friends’ volunteer Rosemary Denham.
“It is so much easier to use than the old hoist we have,” said Sister Natalie Mew. “It also gives the weight of the patient and helps with infection control by taking disposable slings. No-one wants to use the other hoist anymore!”
Such mechanical lifting devices also reduce the risk of back pain amongst hospital staff. In the past it was claimed that two-thirds of NHS sickness across the country was related to back pain and other musculoskeletal problems.
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The Friends is a charity largely run by volunteers which seeks to provide additional NHS services and equipment on the Island. It raises funds from its shop and cafeterias at the hospital, together with donations, special events and legacies.
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