Caring for a patient with limited mobility is not easy. They have to be moved in and out of bed frequently, and this is very challenging on the part of a loved one, a caregiver, a medical assistant, a nurse, or even a physical therapist. But with the introduction of portable patient lifters, this shouldn’t be a problem anymore.
Today, many hospitals have patient lifters for easily lifting patients with limited mobility in and out of bed with much ease than ever before. Patients with conditions like spinal cord injuries, severe arthritis, Parkinson’s diseases, and much more, can now relax knowing that they will be lifted in and out of bed comfortably.
So, whether it is lifting your patient from a bed, bath, or even to a vehicle, these lifts have simplified things for both loved ones and caregivers. However, there are so many units to select from, and you need to pick the one that meets your needs and budget.
The best portable patient lifters feature lightweight yet durable frames and convenient wheels. They should also have a user-friendly operating mechanism that reduces the danger of injury to both patients and caregivers.
There are 3 main types of portable patient lifters, which include hydraulic, manual, and electric units. Also, some units need more than one caregiver to operate smoothly.
After hours of research and scrutinizing, we managed to single out the best 10 portable patient lifters from the rest. Here are our top 10 portable patient lifters:
ProBasics Hydraulic Patient Lift
What we liked most about the product
The ProBasics hydraulic patient body lift is an excellent patient lifter as it is straightforward to use and safe as well. It features two 5-inch front and two rear casters with a lock mechanism. Also, the unit can be folded with much ease for storage and transportation.
Product overview
The ProBasics Portable Patient Lifter is one of the most affordable units on the market, but it is durably constructed. It has heavy-duty and chip-resistant frames with the ability to lift persons that weigh up to 450lbs.
Additionally, this unit has an outstanding lifting range of 20 to 70.5-inches. Hence, lifting patients out of bed to a wheelchair is made easy.
Being a leader in patient lift slings, ProBasics hydraulic patient lift is very simple to operate as all you need to do to attach the sling to the body lift and utilize the pump to lift the patient from bed to chair.
Besides, this unit can use 4 or 6 point lift slings. Furthermore, the adjustable width base enables the lift to be moved with much ease under the bed or chair.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty construction as it can lift to 450 lbs
- Easy to use pump handle
- Moves easily with 4 casters
- Rear caster wheels lock in place for safe usage
- Easily lifts patients in and out of bed
- The adjustable base is easily maneuverable under the bed
Cons:
- It lacks a sling, which you will have to buy separately
Drive Medical Hydraulic Patient Lift with 6-Point Cradle
What we liked most about the product
Drive Medical is a trusted brand with several patient lifters on the market and many other healthcare products. The Drive Medical Hydraulic Patient Lift is a well designed and sturdy unit suitable for home use. This device is easy to assemble and very reliable in lifting patients that weigh 450lbs or less.
Product overview
Made of steel construction, this model has two finishes to choose from, which are silver vein and chrome finishes. Moreover, it has four canisters with two at the front and two at the back.
The back wheels have breaks for secure use during lifting of the patient to and from the bed or chair. Just pump the high-performing hydraulics slowly to raise or lower the patient.
The 6-point cradle design is simple to use and very convenient for caregivers. Even one caregiver will have an easy time lifting their patient from the bed to bath. Besides, the adjustable width base enables the unit to fit properly below the bed. Push it with ease on the sturdy front 5-inch front wheels and lock the unit when necessary with the breaks on the rear wheels.
Pros:
- Durably made to last longer and hold the weight
- Very economical
- Easily manoeuverable
- Simple to operate
- Lifts persons with a weight of up to 450lbs
- Safely raises and lowers patients
- The adjustable width base easily fits under the bed
- Safe and secure with the break on the casters
Cons:
- The patient lift is quite heavy
- Many users have complained about the instructions being poor
Invacare Lightweight Hydraulic Patient Lift, 9805P
What we liked most about the product
Invacare is one of the most notable patient lifters on the market. They offer a wide range of products with exceptional features. The Invacare Lightweight Hydraulic Patient Lift is one of their bestselling models. One of the reasons as to why people love this unit is because it is affordable and can fit in small spaces. It is also easy to use and transport.
Product overview
If you’re in the market for a quality yet affordable portable patient lifter, then this unit will be a great choice. Featuring lightweight frames, the Invacare is simple to assemble and dissemble.
As a result, transporting or keeping the unit is very easy. It also comes with a slim design that makes transferring patients from bed to chair or chair to chair easy and less straining to caregivers.
The Invacare hydraulic lift for patients is simple to use as the user can rotate the pump handle from one side to another. Moving the unit around the room isn’t a problem as well as the unit features low friction wheels that roll with much ease.
With the six-point attachment on the padded swivel bar, the unit allows attachment of different slings such as Reliant, Premier, and Standard series slings.
Pros:
- Convenient pump handle
- Lightweight design for easy carry and storage
- The slim design is great for congested areas
- Very easy to assembled
- Durable and sturdy construction
- Swivel bar can adapt to different sling styles
- Safe and easily maneuverable low friction casters
- Easy to transport as it can be dissembled easily
Cons:
- The slings are sold separately, which is an extra cost
- Lacks wheel locks for safety
- The wheels are not very effective on carpet
Pivit Stand Assist Patient Transport Lift 400lbs
What we liked most about the product
The Pivit Stand Assist Patient Transport Lift offers comfort to users as it comes with a dual knee and seat pads. Additionally, it has a non-slip foot pad for secure use. The best part is that it gets the patient involved in the transport process, so the entire burden is not placed on the caregiver.
Product overview
This is a sturdily constructed unit as it features durable steel frames, black non-slip footrests, a base with locking rear casters, and dual grab bars for extra safety. It can lift an individual with a weight capacity of up to 400lbs.
Apart from being well-made, the Pivit transport-assist device is also very comfortable as it has a seat for simple transport. Also, the folding padded split seat swings enable loading and unloading, and it later swings back to create a comfortable and firm transport seat.
Even though this unit comes with lots of great features, it is still affordable. It is an excellent alternative to electric sit to stand patient lifters. Its use is not only limited to nurses, physical therapists, or doctors but as well as for home use.
However, this unit is only ideal for patients who have the strength and stability to support themselves. Assembling and dissembling are comfortable, and it moves on different surfaces with much ease.
Pros:
- Sturdy construction
- Folding seats
- Easy to assemble and dissemble
- Suitable for tight places
- Large wheels move easily on all surfaces with carpet included
- Non-slip foot pad
- Safe to use with locking rear wheels
- Lifts person with up to 400lbs
- Easy-grip bars for easy handling
- 3-year warranty
Cons:
- Not suitable for patients with no strength to lift and support themselves
- Doesn’t have an adjustable height
2019 New ComfyGo Ultra Lightweight Hydraulic Electric Patient Lift
What we liked most about the product
The 2019 New ComfyGo Ultra Lightweight Hydraulic Electric Patient Lift is one of the most advanced units that you will lay your hands-on. This device is very portable and lightweight for easy storage and transportation.
It is also versatile as it can be used to lift a patient in and out of a wheelchair or bed with a lot of ease or even take them for a shower and back.
Product overview
If you’ve got a patient who has just had a knee or Post-Op hip replacement, then this will be a good lifter for them. Not only does it ease their movement in and out of the wheelchair or to move around the house, but it is also great for bathing. Designed specifically by Team of World-Class PT OT and patient handling experts, this unit is very safe and secure for patients who have just undergone knee/Post-Op replacement.
Similar to many units on this list, it is easy to assemble and use as it features a remote for easy control of the unit. Operating the portable patient lifter is also quick and simple as you only have to direct it with the adjustable back wheel and lock it when needed with the rear canister lock.
Unlike other units on this list, this is one of the most comfortable as it features padded back, seat, and hand rest. So, no more slippery, cold or hard parts to bring discomfort to your patient or loved one.
Pros:
- Durable design
- Portable and lightweight
- Shower friendly build
- Breathable seat and back cushions
- Easy to use with a remote control
- Simple and quick assembly
- Rechargeable for convenient use
- Comfortable with padded back, seat, and hand rest
- Safe to utilize with lockable wheels
- Lifts persons with a weight of up to 300lbs
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Poor customer service as they take long to respond
Invacare Get-U-Up Hydraulic Stand-Up Hydraulic Patient Lift
What we liked most about the product
If you want the best portable patient lift slings, then, you can never go wrong with Invacare. The Invacare Get-U-Up hydraulic patient lift is uniquely constructed to suit people of different body shapes and sizes. The unit is also easy to maneuver with the low friction canisters, and the pump handle can be moved from side to side.
Product overview
Made of durable and lightweight materials, the Invacare Get-U-Up hydraulic unit is easy to assemble and maneuver around the house or hospital.
Apart from that, it offers safety, comfort, and stability to both patients and caregivers. Therefore, there will be fewer cases of back strains and pains by people who use this device.
Additionally, this hydraulic unit comes with unique features that enable it to adapt to different body shapes and sizes. It is recommended that patients who need rehabilitation support or those who can bear some weight should use it. If your patient is very weak and cannot bear any weight, then this is not the device for you.
Pros:
- Convenient pump handle
- Low friction casters for easy maneuverability
- Stable base for transfer with the non-slip footplate
- Can lift individuals with a weight capacity of up to 350lbs
- Versatile as it allows attachment of multiple slings
- Easy to access under most beds with the 4.5-inch clearance
Cons:
- The slings are sold separately which is an added cost
- Not suitable for patients who cannot support themselves at all
Hoyer Deluxe Power Patient Lifter, HPL402
What we liked most about the product
The Hoyer Deluxe Power Patient Lifter is a sturdily constructed unit with a lot of amazing features. This is an electric unit as it runs on one battery. It is simple to use and maneuver with the four caster wheels, making it ideal for both patients and caregivers.
Product overview
With the ability to lift patients that weigh 400lbs or less, the Hoyer Deluxe Power Lifter is a unit great for both home and hospital use. The ergonomic handles not only reduce strains on the caregiver, but they also offer comfortable as the patient is pushed around with much ease. Moreover, the unit has a reverse mounted actuator for extra knee clearance.
The adjustable U-base allows the unit to access under the wheelchair or bed easily. An important safety feature of this unit is the protective caster bumps and leg guards that avoid damage to the furniture and walls when manoeuvering the lifter.
Last but not least, the HPL402 is a very versatile device as it comes with a 6-point non-sway cradle that allows attachment of multiple slings.
Pros:
- Robust construction
- Ergonomic handles to reduce strain
- It has increased leg clearance for the patient
- Manual release for emergency lowering of the unit
- Can lift a person with a weight of up to 400lbs
- Versatile use as it has a 6-point cradle for attaching multiple slings
- Safe to use in the house with protective caster bumpers and leg guards
- Easy to use
- Simple to manoeuvre around a room
Cons:
- The arm is slightly shorter and causes the patient to hit the bar
Advanced Portable Hoyer Patient Lift Electric
What we liked most about the product
Hoyer patient lifts are some of the most uniquely made and advanced units on the market. And if you’re ready to spend to get one of the best electric patient lifts on the market, then the Advanced Portable Hoyer Patient Electric Lift should be on top of your priorities.
This is a wonderful portable patient’s lift because it is easily maneuverable and can fit in the tightest of places. Apart from that, it is very easy to store as it can be folded without the use of any tools.
Product overview
Despite this unit being compact in design, it allows the caregiver to perform a wide range of transfers. It can lift the patient from the floor to the bed, wheelchair to commode, and much more. With the tapered design, the patient will always feel secure and safe when being transferred.
One of the exceptional features of the Advanced Portable Hoyer Lift is the smart monitor control box that is also programmable. The monitor box accurately records and displays important lift utilization and service information. At a press of a button, the clear display shows vital data.
Another feature that makes the Advanced Hoyer unit user-friendly is the push footpad. The footpad is designed to reduce the force required to start a movement when manoeuvering the static patient lift in a forward direction. On top of these outstanding features, you get a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Durable construction for long-lastingness
- Easily fits in compact and tight places
- Simple to store as it is foldable
- Reliable and easy to recharge the battery
- Clear instructions for quick and easy assembling
- Ideal for people who weigh 350lbs or less
- Easy to use
- Safe and secure for caregivers
Cons:
- It is somehow expensive
- The slings are sold separately
Invacare Reliant Battery-Powered Patient Lift with Power-Opening Low Base, RPL450-2
What we liked most about the product
The Invacare Reliant Battery-Powered Patient Lift is not only a stylish but also a very powerful and reliable unit. It is one of the most secure units to use as you can instantly change the battery without interfering with the operation of the device.
Also, it features powered legs that can be adjusted easily and lock securely into position for the safe transfer of the patient.
Product overview
The lift has two 24-volt batteries – one for lift and another for the battery charging station. These ensure that the unit continues to operate even if one battery gets drained. Controlling this device is simple as it comes with an ergonomic control with a heavy-duty cord.
The Invacare Reliant Battery-Powered lift is not only a high-end unit, but it is also versatile. This is because it features a padded swivel bar with 360 degrees rotation and 6-point hook that enables the caregiver to attach different Invacare chain-free slings and even older slings with straps or chains.
Easily maneuver this unit around the room using the multiple-grip push handle and lock the rear canisters for safe lifting of the patient to and from the bed or wheelchair.
Pros:
- Safe to use with the rear locking canisters
- Easy to use and control
- Easy to maneuver with sturdy canister wheels
- Great stability as it features a wider base
- It has a maximum weight capacity of 450lbs
- Sturdy construction
- The battery can be replaced instantly
- Comfortable multi-grip push handle
Cons:
- The unit is expensive
- Slings have to be purchased separately
Hoyer Journey Sit to Stand Lift
What we liked most about the product
The Hoyer Journey Sit to Stand lift is one of the best portable patient lifters on our list and the market as well. This unit is not only versatile but very advanced in performance.
It is lightweight and easily foldable for quick storage and transportation in the boot of your car. Unlike some units, it can accommodate patients of different heights and sizes.
Product overview
Since it is made of durable and lightweight materials, you can fully rely on this unit to offer many years of use. It is also compact in design, which allows caregivers to maneuver easily in tight places. The unit has a low base clearance of 4.5-inches, which makes access under the bed, wheelchair, commode, or even bathtub simple.
Just like the previous Hoyer unit, this Sit to Stand Lift features a smart monitor technology for ease of use. Also, it has two 24-volt batteries and an offboard charger for convenient use.
Other unique features of this unit include an adjustable kneepad with infinite settings, adjustable cradle, and intuitive push pad.
Pros:
- Durable and sturdy for longevity
- Maneuvers with a lot of ease
- Extremely portable and lightweight
- Easy to use and setup
- Foldable for easy storage and transportation
- Suitable for people who weigh 340lbs or less
- Accommodates patients with different heights and sizes
- Safe and secure for both caregivers and patients
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Slings have to be bought separately
Patients Portable Lifters Buying Guide
This guide should help you pick the best portable patient lifter for your needs and demands.
Durability
The first thing to consider when looking for a portable patient’s lifter is its construction. Since this is a unit that you will be using most of the time to move your patient around, you need to pick a sturdy and stable device.
From wheels to the footplate, sling bar, sling attachment points, mast, and boom, they should be made of durable materials.
Maneuverable
A good portable patient lifter should be easily maneuverable to transport the patient anywhere. Also, it should have locking wheels, and the base should be capable of being widened to fit under chairs easily.
Portable patient lifters are different from ceiling-mounted patient’s lifts, which are limited to a track set up inside the ceiling. These are for lifting patients out of the bed and nothing more.
Portable and lightweight
Just like its name suggests, a portable patient lifter should be easy to move, carry, and even store. Select a unit that you can easily fold away and keep in the boot of your car or a store or even under the bed for easy access. Besides, the lifter should have lightweight but durable frames.
Hydraulic, electric or manual device
When looking for a portable patient’s lifter, you will come across these three main types, which are hydraulic, electric, and manual operated units. The manual operated device needs much more effort for the caregiver to transfer the patient from bed to chair or vice versa.
Secondly, the electrically operated unit is the easiest to use as it just requires a press of a button on a handheld remote, leaving one hand to control the sling and help the patient. In contrast, the hydraulic operated device combines the two styles (manual and electronic).
Hydraulic units are the least expensive and need the caregiver to turn a crank-handle to raise the boom arm.
Push handles
The push handles should be comfortable and not cause backaches as you move the patient from one room to another.
Condition of the patient
This is very important as a bad patient lifter will not help a lot. Consider the weight and height of the patient before purchasing a unit for them.
Available space
Another important thing to consider when buying a portable lift for your patient is the available room in the house. You shouldn’t go for a bigger unit if you have a small space in your house. Note that some patient lifters are difficult to move on the carpet.
Number of caregivers
Is your portable patient lifter for home or hospital use? Whatever the case, you must have in mind that some units will require more than one caregiver to operate well.
For instance, manual units need more than one caregiver for proper transfer of the patient from bed to chair. This avoids injuries to both the patient and caregiver.
Price
A factor to consider when buying a patient lift is the price. From simple manual operated lifters to advanced electric operated lifts, you need to set out a budget so that you know where to look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What’s the difference between the floor lift and ceiling lift?
A. Floor lifts are the most popular because of their ease of use and versatility. Floor lifts or portable sling lifts come with a wheeled base and need a lot of space around beds for easy patient transfer. Ceiling lifts are common in nursing homes and hospitals. They are supported by tracks that are fixed to the ceiling and need less space. They use an electric motor to raise and lower the patient in bed. Last but not least,
Ceiling lifts are common in nursing homes and hospitals. They are supported by tracks that are fixed to the ceiling and need less space. They use an electric motor to raise and lower the patient in bed. Last but not least,
Q. What are the vital factors to consider when buying a portable sling lift?
A. It depends on the needs of the patient and caregiver. Key considerations include the weight of the patient, range of lift height, the scale for weighing patients, type of sling, and ease of pushing.
Q. What kind of patient lift is ideal for me?
A. Typically, there are two types of patient lift units, which are patient lifts and sit-to-stand lifts. Sling or patient lifts are great for patients who are weak because of injury or illness and bariatric patients. Sling lifts are utilized in nursing homes, hospitals, and private homes. They assist in the safe transfer of a patient from bed to chair and vice versa.
Conclusion
With many caregivers and patients suffering from injuries connected to patient transfers, finding the best portable sling lifter for your patient is very vital. It allows you to lift your patient from and to the bed easily.
The patient lifters that we’ve listed above have exceptional features, and many users applaud them. We hope you’ve found a unit that matches your needs and budget.
