Sit to stand with a standing hoist

A standing hoist is only suitable if the client can: 

1. Weight bear through at least one leg 

2. Cooperate and understand instructions 

3. Balance and control their upper body 

4. Explain to the client how the standing hoist will help them to stand, and preferably demonstrate how it works – this will also help to reassure them it is safe 

5. Apply hoist sling to client. Make sure that the sling is the correct size for the client, tight enough to stop the sling riding up under the arms, but still comfortable 

6. Wheel the standing hoist into position and adjust the hoist legs to fit around the furniture 

7. Position the hoist’s sling bar 

8. Ask the client to put their feet on the footplate 

9. If the hoist’s kneepads are adjustable, adjust them to suit the client, making sure the kneepads are below their patellae (kneecaps) 

10. Attach the leg strap around the back of the client’s knees, if required 

11. Attach the sling to the standing hoist, with the nearest loop reachable without pulling the client forward 

12. Ask the client to place hands on the hand grips (depending on hoist type) and stand themselves up as you raise the sling bar. They can lean back slightly into the sling 

13. Reposition the standing hoist to where the client is to be seated 

14. Lower the standing hoist once the client is positioned over the surface to which they are being moved 

15. Encourage the client to bend at the hips or assist with the bend, and lower themselves along with the movement of the sling bar. 

Note: 

It is recommended that the hoist brakes not be on at any point during the procedure, but wheelchair, bed or commode brakes should be on. Exceptions to this recommendation should have adequate risk assessments. It is acknowledged that some instructions from hoist suppliers differ from this recommendation. 

If the sling is positioned properly and still rides up, it may indicate that the client is not able to reach a standing position or that the sling is not sized correctly. Do not use this technique if the client is unable to stand; use a full sling hoist instead. 

If the client is being moved to sit on a bed so they can lie down, but cannot do this independently, you will need to use a profiling bed and/or handling equipment. 

Extra care is needed if transferring a stroke client with a standing hoist, as support may be needed for the stroke‑affected arm to prevent damage to the shoulder. Some hoists have arm slings attached for this purpose. Standing hoists are often not suitable for stroke clients with painful shoulders