Getting in gear.

Having been a quadriplegic for 18 years, as well as the owner of a small, medical supply company, I have a thorough awareness of the types of products and information available for safe transfers under various circumstances.

My approach in providing information about safe transfers (for "patients" and care givers) is to provide pictures and brief comments about products to consider. Specific manufacturers are not recommended in any way. If you are interested in a particular item, you should do an Internet search using the word "disabled," along with of the product description (e.g. "Disabled transfer boards").

Walker Belts

These provide gripping straps to assist in safe transfers. The Grab Straps are easy to ... well, grab when the patient needs assistance. The Walker Belts come with strong Velcro[R] hook-and-loop closures. Also known as Assistance Belts.

Gait Belts 

Also known as transfer belts, these are designed to help prevent back injury and assist in the safe transfer or ambulation of patients. They typically come with metal buckles or quick-release plastic buckles and may be made of nylon or cotton. Pads are also available for extra protection from falls.

Transfer Boards

Available in various sizes and shapes, and can be used to make many transfers safer and easier. Transfer from bed to chair ... from chair to car seat ... from chair to toilet ... Priced from $25 to more than $100.

Mobility Transfer Handles

A form of bed rail transfer, these are a safe way to independently get from lying to sitting to standing position with ease. Perfect for wheelchair transfers

They're also ideal for the person who uses a walker and needs moderate assistance.

Priced at about $120

Adjustable Beds 

Adjustable beds are available in "hospital style" and "designer style." Hospital Style beds allow adjustment of bed height from the floor. Designer Style models do not. Adjustability of height can be important when transferring into and out of bed is an issue.

Priced from $800 to $3000.

Hydraulic Patient Lift

A Hydraulic Patient Lift typically includes these features:

*A six-point swivel style that adapts to all sling styles and positions.

* A 20-inch to 64-inch height range that allows patient to be lifted from prone position on the floor.

* 360-degree rotation without side-to-side sway.

* Available with adjustable-width base or with low base for 4.5-inch low clearance.

* Weight limit of 450 pounds.

Prices range from $800 up to $7,000. Lift Chairs

The typical Two-Way Lift Chair includes these features:

* A 20-inch by 20-inch seat.

* An 18-1/2-inch seat height.

* Back height (from seat to top of back) of 28 inches.

* A 30-1/2-inch overall width.

* Weight limit of 325 pounds.

Ken LeBrun is president and owner of Franklin Medical Supply Inc., which specializes in rehabilitation products, including hospital beds and bed elevators for the long term care industry. He may be contacted at [e-mail].