Oxford Sling Guide
24Pages

Sling Guide Redefining Patient Handling

Oxford Sling Models 4 Oxford Sling Features 10 Spreader Bar/Cradle Options 13 Sling Selection & Risk Assessment 14 Size & Weight Range Guide 17 Matching the Right Sling to the Task 18 Oxford Sling Selector 19 Moving and Handling Training 21 About Joerns Healthcare 21

Introduction A sling is an item of moving and handling equipment that is used with a mechanical lift in order to facilitate the transfer of a patient. A sling comprises a specially designed and constructed piece of fabric that is placed under and around a patient before being attached to the spreader bar/cradle of a lift to raise, transfer and lower the patient. When selected and used correctly, a sling and lift combination will achieve a safer transfer and reduce the risks associated with manual handling. This guide aims to assist those responsible for the provision of slings by outlining...

Oxford Sling Models The Oxford range of slings has been designed with a number of features aimed at meeting varied lifting requirements and applications. Each sling is described briefly below. Note FIM scores have been provided as an assessment tool to classify a person’s function from independence to total assistance in 7 levels. See page 15 for classifications details. Quickfit Sling This sling is an easy-to-fit, universal sling designed to suit approximately 85% of patients. Side suspenders are recommended when using this sling to maximise patient comfort and positioning. Lift Type:...

Comfort Access Padded Sling This sling is designed specifically to facilitate the toileting procedure by allowing the removal of clothing. It is NOT a general-purpose sling and will suit only 25% of patients. Patients must be in a sitting position to use this sling. Fitted with a head support as standard. Lift Type: Standard Sizes: Material Options: Polyester SWL FIM Scores: 2 or 3 following careful assessment NOTE: A thorough risk assessment MUST be carried out when using the Access sling as it can be unsafe when used with the wrong patient. Long Seat Sling This sling can only be put on or...

Full Back Sling This is a more specialised sling. The correct size will fit snuggly and give full protection for patients who go into extension or have involuntary movements or behavioural problems. It incorporates a boned head support and padded leg pieces as standard. Lift Type: Standard Sizes: FIM Scores: 1 and 2 and any other person from the floor Silkfit Sling This sling is a flexible contoured, easy-to-fit sling designed to fit 85-90% of clients. This sling is especially suited to patients in moulded type wheelchair systems where fitting of the sling can prove difficult. It...

Standing Harness The Standing Harness is a versatile sling with a wide range of uses. This includes assisting with standing and walking or visiting the toilet. The Standing Harness supports the patient around the upper body as well as under the arms. The Standing Harness is not a general-purpose sling and requires the patient to be able to partially weight bear. Lift Type: Standard Sizes: Material Options: Polyester SWL FIM Scores: 2 or 3 following careful assessment Standing Sling The standing sling is suitable for those patients who have a greater degree of weight bearing ability. It...

Bariatric Hammock Sling (Calibre only) The Bariatric Hammock Sling is suitable for the safe transfer of bariatric patients. Made from a triple skinned, breathable material, it is particularly suited to patients who may have to remain in the sling for extended periods. Patients must be carefully assessed for suitability by a qualified person prior to a transfer taking place. Lift Type: Standard Sizes: Passive (Calibre only) Super-soft Polyester Careful and thorough risk assessment required prior to use

Sling Accessories Head supports and pads help to ensure correct positioning and support during a transfer. Side suspenders. A head/neck roll provides additional comfort and support for the patient. Extension straps allow an increase in length of the existing sling straps that connect to the lift. Oxford’s ultra-low friction slide sheets allow basic patient handling tasks to be completed without the need to lift the patient.

Oxford Sling Features Oxford slings have many common attributes that make them easier to use, and easier to train with. Coloured binding provides clear recognised size information. Coloured loop straps that provide adjustment and the correct positioning angle for the 6-point spreader bar system. Clear sling labels provide product information and on-going care instructions. Centerline markers aid the carer in the correct positioning of the sling, especially when inserting the sling before an off the bed or floor transfer. Leg support widths (1) offer optimal support, while not cutting into...

Strap angles are carefully calculated to ensure correct posture and comfort of the patient. Handles on the sides of our slings are carefully positioned to ensure correct handling. Oxford’s standard range of slings are made from polyester making them both durable and comfortable. Padding provides additional comfort and support to delicate areas and our webbing straps have covered ends to protect the patient’s skin. Oxford’s Silkfit sling is made from a nylon material which makes fitting easier. This sling is especially suited to patients in moulded-type wheelchairs. The grey colour of our...

User Guide A detailed user guide is provided with every sling. It contains essential information including safety guidance, machine washing and general care of the sling. The user guide should be read and understood prior to using any Oxford sling. Identification Label INEJTU BLING The identification label provides essential information about the Model reference number Testing mark (CE or similar) Washing/care instructions Safe working load (SWL) Identification picture Note: Each sling includes a unique serial number to enable traceability. This is particularly useful when completing...