Which device is used to move those who are unable to stand on their own or whose weight makes manual lifting unsafe?

• A. Stretcher
• B. Mechanical Lift
• C. Crane
• D. Wheelchair

Answer: (B)

Safe patient handling relies on using devices that reduce manual lifting when a resident can’t stand or when their weight makes lifting risky. A mechanical lift fits this need because it uses motorized lifting with a sling to raise and transfer the person from bed to chair or to other locations. This protects the caregiver’s back and minimizes the chance of injury for the patient during movement. A stretcher is mainly for moving someone who is already lying down and doesn’t provide the safe lifting mechanism needed when standing isn’t possible. A wheelchair requires the patient to transfer onto it, which may be unsafe or impossible if standing isn’t possible or if the person is too heavy to lift. A crane isn’t used in routine healthcare settings. So the mechanical lift is the appropriate device for moving those who can’t stand or for whom manual lifting is unsafe.