WO2025090005A1 - Patient sling - Google Patents

Patient sling Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2025090005A1
WO2025090005A1 PCT/SE2024/050904 SE2024050904W WO2025090005A1 WO 2025090005 A1 WO2025090005 A1 WO 2025090005A1 SE 2024050904 W SE2024050904 W SE 2024050904W WO 2025090005 A1 WO2025090005 A1 WO 2025090005A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
sling
support portion
patient
torso
strap
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/SE2024/050904
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Genevieve Miron
Marie-Josée TOUPIN
Denis-Alexandre Brulotte
Marianne-Coquelicot MERCIER
Audrey COULOMBE
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Arjo IP Holding AB
Original Assignee
Arjo IP Holding AB
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Arjo IP Holding AB filed Critical Arjo IP Holding AB
Priority to AU2024367995A priority Critical patent/AU2024367995A1/en
Publication of WO2025090005A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025090005A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
    • A61G7/00—Beds specially adapted for nursing; Devices for lifting patients or disabled persons
    • A61G7/10—Devices for lifting patients or disabled persons, e.g. special adaptations of hoists thereto
    • A61G7/1049—Attachment, suspending or supporting means for patients
    • A61G7/1051—Flexible harnesses or slings
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices ; Anti-rape devices
    • A61F5/37—Restraining devices for the body or for body parts; Restraining shirts
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B35/00—Safety belts or body harnesses; Similar equipment for limiting displacement of the human body, especially in case of sudden changes of motion
    • A62B35/0006—Harnesses; Accessories therefor
    • A62B35/0012—Sit harnesses
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
    • A61G2200/00—Information related to the kind of patient or his position
    • A61G2200/30—Specific positions of the patient
    • A61G2200/34—Specific positions of the patient sitting

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the technical field of patient slings.
  • the present invention relates to a sling for supporting a patient.
  • the lift might be wheeled to position the hoist assembly and lifting member over or adjacent to a patient.
  • a lifting member may then be lowered to receive the patient and subsequently raise the lifting member and patient so that they may be wheeled elsewhere to be lowered and placed.
  • a ceiling lift may be utilized in a similar manner; however, the hoist assembly is movably engaged to ceiling-mounted tracks such that the hoist assembly can be moved about the track from location to location.
  • a ceiling lift may be described as a motor unit movable along a rail, a flexible member is attached to a lifting member in the form of a spreader bar.
  • the motor unit commonly comprises a transmission, batteries and a control module.
  • a patient sling is attached to the spreader bar.
  • the patient is seated or lays on top of the patient sling, whereby the patient lift raises the patient sling and thereby the patient.
  • Dynamic lifts provides dynamic unloading based on the load exerted by the patient to the spreader bar or sling or the elevation of the sling. Hence, when the walking patient begins to fall or lose balance the motor controlling the lift provides additional lifting force allowing the lift to pull the patient back to standing.
  • the present invention relates to a sling for supporting a patient.
  • the sling comprises a first and second leg support portion and a torso support portion.
  • the first and the second leg support portion each comprises a respective first and second torso attachment portion configured to be attached against a lower long side on the torso support portion, which first and second torso attachment portion are spaced apart from each other on the torso support portion.
  • the first and second leg support portion each comprises a free end portion.
  • the respective free end portions comprises at least a first and second free end connector element adapted to connect with a first connector element arranged on the first leg support portion and adapted to connect with a second connector element arranged on the second leg support portion.
  • the first and the second leg support portion each extends from the torso support portion from the respective first and second torso attachment portion in a curved direction.
  • the sling comprises at least a first and second back suspension strap each arranged against the respective first and second leg support portion at a first and second attachment point.
  • the first and second back suspension strap each have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion towards a respective first connection part arranged on the respective first and second back suspension strap.
  • the sling comprising at least a first and a second front strap arranged against the torso support portion.
  • the first and a second front strap each have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion towards a respective at least one coupling member arranged on the respective first and second front strap.
  • the first and the second back suspension strap are arranged between the first and second front strap.
  • the sling comprising at least a first and a second front strap are arranged against the respective the first and second leg support portion at a third and fourth attachment point.
  • the first and a second front strap each have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion towards a respective at least one coupling member arranged on the respective first and second front strap.
  • the first and the second back suspension strap are arranged between the first and second front strap.
  • the torso support portion comprises at least one guiding arrangement, whereby the first and second back suspension straps are adapted to pass through the at least one guiding arrangement for securing a position of the first and second back suspension straps at the back of the patient.
  • the at least one guiding arrangement comprises a first guiding loop and a second guiding loop, wherein the first guiding loop is adapted to receive the first back suspension strap and a second guiding loop is adapted to receive the second back suspension strap.
  • the at least one guiding arrangement comprises a third guiding loop and a fourth guiding loop, wherein the third guiding loop is adapted to receive the first back suspension strap and a fourth guiding loop is adapted to receive the second back suspension strap.
  • the first and second free end connector element comprises a first part of a buckle connector and the connector element comprises the second part of a buckle connector.
  • the first and second free end part comprises a first and second multiple loop strap.
  • the leg support portions comprises a guiding arrangement. A first and second end part of the leg support portions are adapted to pass through the guiding arrangement for securing a position of the first and second leg support portions wrapped around the thighs of the patient.
  • the first and second free end part comprises hook and loop attachments.
  • the torso support portion has a back portion adapted to provide back support to the patient when in use.
  • the back portion of the torso support portion is provided with at least one handle element.
  • the attachment point of the first torso attachment portion is adapted to be proximal to an outer side of the hip of the patient and the attachment point of the second torso attachment portion is adapted to be proximal to an outer side of the other hip of the patient.
  • the torso support portion is adapted to wrap around the whole torso of the patient.
  • the sling comprises an outer part and an inner part adapted to be attached with stiches, wherein the stiches are fashioned such that the excess material for the stiches allowance is not exposed to the outer surface of the sling.
  • a reinforcement fabric is provided between the outer part and the inner part to which the at least first and second back suspension straps are anchored.
  • the stiches are sealed to prevent moisture ingress from exterior sources.
  • the outer part is attached to the inner part by an adhesive.
  • leg support portions are padded.
  • the torso support portion is padded.
  • the sling being made of a woven or knitted material.
  • the sling is made of coated and/or laminated material.
  • the sling is made of disposable material.
  • each of the first and second back suspension straps are provided with at least two coupling members provided along the length of the first and second back suspension straps, the coupling members being configured to couple the sling to a patient lifting device.
  • an adjustable back strap is provided at a back part of the torso support portion and configured to alter the distance between the at least first and second back suspension straps.
  • the sling during use, is configured for any one of transferring a patient, ambulating a patient, lifting a patient and providing support for a patient.
  • FIG. 1 is a front view of a sling according to one embodiment in closed mode.
  • FIG. 2 is a back view of a sling according to one embodiment in closed mode.
  • FIG. 3 is a back view of a sling according to one embodiment in open mode.
  • FIG. 4 is a back view of a sling according to one embodiment in open mode.
  • FIG. 5 is a back view of a sling according to one embodiment in open mode.
  • FIG. 6 is a side view of a sling according to one embodiment during use.
  • FIG. 7 is a side view of a sling according to one embodiment during use.
  • FIG. 8a-f illustrating a mounting process of a sling according to one embodiment.
  • Figure 1 and 2 depict a body support sling 100, 200, front and back view in closed mode, i.e. when mounted as it should when in use by a patient.
  • Figure 3 and 4 depicts a body support sling 100, 200 back view in open mode, i.e. when not in use by a patient.
  • the sling 100, 200 is adapted for supporting a patient when connected to a patient lifting device, not shown.
  • the patient lifting device have a spreader bar.
  • the spreader bar is any of a two-point or four-point spreader bar. Supporting may herein refer to providing support to the patient while the patient wears the sling 100, 200. This may be for example during transferring, ambulating, exercising, walking or standing.
  • the sling 100, 200 is configured for any one of transferring a patient, ambulating a patient, lifting a patient and providing support for a patient, which is standing or walking.
  • the patient lifting device is a ceiling lift provided with the spreader bar.
  • the ceiling lift is a dynamic ceiling lift, which is configured to dynamically unload the patient while the patient moves around, or a conventional ceiling lift, which is configured to raise and lower a patient in a linear manner.
  • the patient lifting device is a floor lift.
  • the floor lift comprising a wheel-mounted platform with a vertically extending unit provided with the lifting unit, the lifting unit being provided with the spreader bar.
  • the patient lifting device is a rising or standing aid configured to support a patient from a sitting position to a standing position.
  • the patient lifting device have a pivotable lifting member driven to lift the thighs and back of the seated patient in a standing direction.
  • the sling 100, 200 comprises a leg support portion 10, as shown in Figure 1.
  • the leg support portion 10 is adapted to support the thighs of a patient. Accordingly, the leg support portion 10 is adapted to support the thighs of the patient during use, i.e. worn by the patient.
  • the sling 100, 200 comprises a torso support portion 20.
  • the torso support portion 20 is adapted to support the torso of the patient. Accordingly, the torso support portion 20 is adapted to support the torso of the patient during use, i.e. worn by the patient.
  • the connecting portion comprises at least a first and second back suspension strap 21a, 21b.
  • the connecting portion comprises at least a first and second front straps 22a, 22b.
  • the at least first and second back suspension strap 21a, 21b are attached to the leg support portion 10, as shown in Figure 1, 3 and 4.
  • the pair of back suspension straps 21a, 21b extends from the lifting device to the leg support portion 10 when the sling is mounted to the patient lifting device. This ensures that the pulling force is directed to the patient hipbone (iliac crest) in order to better emulate the natural sit to stand motion by allowing frontward flexion of the upper body of the patient.
  • a more ergonomic sling is achieved which also is suitable both for lifting and supporting a standing or walking patient as well as helping a sitting patient to a standing position.
  • the leg support portion 10 includes a first and a second leg support member 1 la, 1 lb, each adapted to wrap around the thighs of the patient.
  • the majority of the load is thus taken by the pair of back suspension straps 21a, 21b.
  • the sling allows for better frontward body flexion and better emulates a natural sit to stand motion. In addition, the sling also brings the patient back to a comfortable seated position in case of fall.
  • the sling comprises a first and second leg support portion I la, 11b and a torso support portion 20.
  • the first and the second leg support portion I la, 11b each comprises a respective first and second torso attachment portion 12a, 12b configured to be attached against a lower long side on the torso support portion 20, which first and second torso attachment portion 12a, 12b are spaced apart from each other on the torso support portion 20.
  • the first and second leg support portion I la, 11b each comprises a free end portion 14a, 14b, the respective free end portions 14a, 14b comprises at least a first and second free end connector element 13a, 13b, 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b adapted to connect with a first connector element 15a, 19a, 32a arranged on the first leg support portion I la, and adapted to connect with a second connector element 15b, 19b, 32b arranged on the second leg support portion 11b.
  • the first and the second leg support portion I la, 11b each extends from the torso support portion 20 from the respective first and second torso attachment portion 12a, 12b in a curved direction.
  • the sling comprises at least a first and second back suspension strap 21a, 21b each arranged against the respective first and second leg support portion I la, 11b at a first and second attachment point 17 a, 17b and have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion 20 and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion 20 towards a respective first connection part 30 arranged on the respective first and second back suspension strap 21a, 21b.
  • the leg support portion 10 comprises a first leg support member I la and a second leg support member 11b.
  • the first leg support member I la is adapted to wrap around a first thigh of the patient.
  • the second leg support member 11b is adapted to wrap around the second thigh of the patient.
  • the leg support members I la, 11b i.e. leg bands, wrapping around the thighs of the patient allows for a more comfortable sling.
  • first leg support member I la and the second leg support member 11b are arranged such that an upper outer edge of said first leg support member I la and second leg support member 1 lb have a downward inward inclination. Accordingly, the first leg support member I la has an upper edge arranged be inclined from a first higher position proximal to an outer side of the first thigh of the patient to a second lower position proximal to an inner side of the first thigh of the patient, when in use.
  • the second leg support member 1 lb has an upper edge adapted to be inclined from a first higher position proximal to an outer side of the second thigh of the patient to a second lower position proximal to an inner side of the second thigh of the patient, when in use.
  • the leg support members I la, 11b are considered a shaped leg band, i.e. a leg band following the shape of the thighs of the patient.
  • the sling 100, 200 have a virtual longitudinal central axis, shown in Figure 1 as a dotted line A, corresponding to the center of the body of the patient when the patient wears the sling. Accordingly, the upper edge of the first leg support member I la extends diagonally and downwards towards the longitudinal central axis A when the sling is worn by the patient. Correspondingly, the upper edge of the second leg support member 11b extend diagonally and downwards towards the longitudinal central axis A when the sling is worn by the patient.
  • leg support members I la, 11b reduces the risk for pinching and the leg band rising in the crotch when in tension.
  • first leg support member I la and the second leg support member 1 lb is padded to further increase the comfort.
  • the torso support portion 20 is padded to further increase the comfort. Further referencing Figure 1, the torso support portion 20 is adapted to be wrapped around the torso of the patient.
  • the torso support portion 20 comprise at least one pair of coupling connections 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b, shown in Figure 3 and 4.
  • the at least one pair of coupling connection is configured to releasably connect the opposite ends of the torso support portion 20.
  • the at least one pair of coupling connections is adapted to be in front of the patient when the sling is mounted to or worn by the patient. This makes it easier for the care personnel to mount on and demount the sling 100, 200 from the patient.
  • the torso support portion 20 comprises a first belt strap and a second belt strap provided at the end parts 29a, 29b of the torso support portion 20, shown in Figure 3 and 4.
  • the first belt strap is provided with a first pair of the coupling connections 25a, 25b.
  • the second belt strap is provided with a second pair of the coupling connection 26a, 26b.
  • the coupling connections are adjustable by means of the belt straps. The belt straps accommodates adjustment for different patient morphologies.
  • each of the back suspension straps 21a, 21b comprise each at least one coupling member 30 configured to couple the sling 100, 200 to the patient hoist.
  • the at least one coupling member 30 is adapted to couple the sling 100, 200 to a spreader bar of the patient lifting device.
  • the at least one coupling member 30 is in the form of loops.
  • the sling has a back portion 27 of the torso support portion 20.
  • the back portion 27 is adapted to provide back support to the patient when the sling is mounted to the patient, i.e. worn by the patient.
  • the back portion 27 is adapted to be proximal to the back of the patient.
  • first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b are attached to a first and second attachment point 17a, 17b provided on the first and second leg support portion I la, 11b of the leg support portion 10.
  • the back portion 27 of the torso support portion 20 has a concave shape.
  • the concave shape is particularly advantageous if the sling is used with a standing and raising aid since it allows easier access for the caregiver for performing hygienic tasks. Furthermore, the concave shape mitigates pressure points, which improves the comfort of the sling.
  • the torso support portion 20 is provided with at least one handle element 28, as shown in Figure 3 and 4.
  • the handle element 28 on the back portion allows the caregiver to pull the patient at the back of a chair when seating the patient on the chair with the sling 100, 200.
  • At least a first and second front straps 22a, 22b are attached to the torso support portion 20, as shown in Figure 1, 3 and 4.
  • the at least first and second front strap 22a, 22b is arranged against the torso support portion 20 and have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion 20 and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion 20 towards a respective at least one coupling member 30 arranged on the respective first and second front strap 22a, 22b, and wherein the first and the second back suspension strap 21a, 21b are arranged between the first and second front strap 22a, 22b.
  • At least a first and second front strap 22a, 22b is attached to the leg support portion 10, as shown in Figure 5.
  • the at least first and a second front strap 22a, 22b are arranged against the respective the first and second leg support portion I la, 1 lb at a third and fourth attachment point 17c, 17d and have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion 20 and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion 20 towards a respective at least one coupling member 30 arranged on the respective first and second front strap 22a, 22b, and wherein the first and the second back suspension strap 21a, 21b are arranged between the first and second front strap 22a, 22b.
  • At least one strap of the pair of front straps 22a, 22b and/or at least one strap of the pair of back suspension straps 21a, 21b are adjustable to adjust the distance between the patient lifting device and the torso support portion 20.
  • the torso support portion 20 has back portion with a concave shape with the wider portion being arranged to support the back of the patient, e.g. when the sling is worn by the patient.
  • the front portion, when the sling is worn by the patient, of the torso support portion 20 is arranged to extend adjacent to the ribs and/or chest of the patient.
  • a central portion, front portion and back portion, of the torso support portion 20 may be wider than a first and second side portion of the torso support portion 20 arranged on each side of a the central portion.
  • the sling 100, 200 includes an adjustable back strap 31 provided at a back part of the torso support portion 20 and configured to alter the distance between the at least first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b.
  • each of at least first and second front straps 22a, 22b and/or the at least first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b are provided with at least two coupling members 30.
  • the at least two coupling members 30 are provided at a distance from each other along the length of the at least first and second front straps 22a, 22b and/or the at least first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b.
  • the coupling members 30 are configured to couple the sling 100, 200 to the patient lifting device.
  • the coupling members 30 are configured to couple the sling 100, 200 to the spreader bar.
  • the at least two coupling members 30 provided on the same strap 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b allows the care personnel to adapt the sling 100, 200 in a simple manner, i.e. by just choosing the appropriate coupling member 30 for attaching to the patient lifting device. Further, it allows for straps 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b with an adjustable length without introduction of additional buckles etc. that makes it more robust and less expensive.
  • the at least two coupling members 30 may be in the form of loops attached to the strap 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b.
  • the first leg support portions I la comprises a first torso attachment portion 12a.
  • the first torso attachment portion 12a is configured to be attached to the torso support portion 20.
  • the second leg support portion 11b comprises a second torso attachment portion 12b.
  • the second torso attachment portion 12b is configured to be attached to the torso support portion 20.
  • each of the first and second leg support portion I la, 11b comprises a thigh- wrapping portion adapted to wrap around the thighs of the patient.
  • the thigh-wrapping portions are padded.
  • the thigh-wrapping portion comprise a layer of padding or cushioning material. This allows for an increased mobility of the sling for the patient, since relative movement between the torso support portion 20 and the leg support portion 10 is accommodated by the unpadded material of the torso attachment portion 20.
  • the thigh-wrapping portion of the first leg support portion I la and the second leg support portion 11b each comprises a respective first and second free end portion 14a, 14b.
  • the respective first and second free end portions 14a, 14b comprises a first and second free end connector element 13a, 13b, 16a, 16b (not shown) 18a, 18b, as seen in Figure 1, 3, 4 and 7.
  • the first free end connector element 13a, 16a, 18a is adapted to connect with a first connector element 15a, 19a, 32a arranged on the first leg support portion I la
  • the second free end connector element 13b, 16b, 18b is adapted to connect with a second connector element 15b, 19b, 32b arranged on the second leg support portion 11b.
  • the connector elements are connected proximal to the front of the first and second thigh of the patient when the sling 100, 200 is worn by the patient.
  • the hospital personnel may access the connector elements easily when mounting the sling 100, 200 to the patient, making the sling more user friendly.
  • the first and second free end connector element 13 a, 13b comprises a first part of a buckle connectors and the connector element 15a, 15b comprises the second part of a buckle connector.
  • the first and second free end connector element 18a, 18b comprises multiple loops, which are coupled through a first and second support guiding loop 19a, 19b, provided on the first and second leg support member I la, 11b, and the first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b, respectively.
  • the first and second free end connector element 16a, 16b are configured as a hook and loop attachment strap adapted to be guided through a guiding arrangement 32a, 32b on respective first and second leg support member 1 la, 1 lb.
  • the torso support portion 20 comprise a guiding arrangement 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b.
  • the pair of back suspension straps 21a, 21b are adapted to pass through the guiding arrangement 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b for limiting relative movement between the leg support portion 10 and the torso support portion 20.
  • the pair of back suspension straps 21a, 21b are adapted to pass through the guiding arrangement for securing a position of the back suspension straps 21a, 21b at the back of the patient (when the sling is worn by the patient).
  • the guiding arrangement 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b is arranged to allow for sliding movement of the pair of suspension straps 21a, 22b along the length of said pair of suspension straps 21a, 21b.
  • the guiding arrangement 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b is in the form of loops.
  • the guiding arrangement comprises a first guiding loop 23a and a second guiding loop 23b.
  • the first guiding loop 23a is adapted to receive the first back suspension strap 21a.
  • the second guiding loop 23b is adapted to receive the second back suspension strap 21b.
  • the guiding arrangement comprises a third guiding loop 24a, and a fourth guiding loop 24b.
  • the third guiding loop 24a is adapted to receive the first back suspension strap 21a.
  • the fourth guiding loop 24b is adapted to receive the second back suspension strap 21b.
  • first leg support portion I la and the second leg support portion 11b comprises a first and second free end 14a, 14b connectable by means of a first and second multiple loop strap 18a, 18b.
  • Figure 8a-f shows how to connect and secure the first and second free ends 14a, 14b wrapped around the thighs of the patient. The mounting steps are explained further below.
  • Step 1 (shown in Figure 8a): Wrap the leg support portion I la, 11b around the thigh of the patient.
  • Step 2 (shown in Figure 8b): Pass the first and second multiple loop strap 18a, 18b through a respective first and second leg support guiding loop 19a, 19b.
  • Step 3 (shown in Figure 8c and 8d): Pass the first and second back suspension support straps 21a, 21b trough one loop of the respective first and second multiple loop strap 18a, 18b and further through the first and second guiding loop 23a, 23b.
  • Step 4 (shown in Figure 8e) - optional, if there is a third and fourth guiding loop 24a, 24b, pass the first and second back suspension support strap 21a, 21b through the third and fourth guiding loop 24a, 24b.
  • Figure 8f shows the final result, i.e. the sling worn by a user, patient, of the mounting steps shown in Figure 8a-e.
  • the mounting process includes step 1, 3.
  • the result is shown in Figure 6.
  • the first back suspension strap 21a is attached to an attachment point 17a of the first leg support portion I la.
  • the second back suspension strap 21b is attached to an attachment point 17b of the second leg support portion 11b.
  • the attachment point 17a of the first leg support portion 1 la is provided at a position, which will be proximal to the outer side of a first thigh of the patient when in use.
  • Outer side herein refers to the distant side of the first thigh relative the longitudinal center axis A.
  • the attachment point 17b of the second leg support portion 11b is provided at a position, which will be proximal to the outer side of a second thigh of the patient when in use.
  • Outer side herein refers to the distant side of the second thigh relative the longitudinal center axis A.
  • a portion the first suspension strap 21a is adapted to extend along at least a portion of the outer side of the first thigh when the patient is in a standing position.
  • a portion of the second suspension strap 21b is adapted to extend along at least a portion of the outer side of the second thigh when the patient is in a standing position.
  • FIG. 6 and 7 a patient supported by means of the sling 100, 200 in a standing position is depicted.
  • the torso support portion 20 supports the back of the patient while the leg support portion 10 supports, i.e. unloads and/or carries the back of the thighs of the patient.
  • the torso support portion 20 comprises at least a first and second front strap 22 a, 22b attached to the torso support portion 20 for securing a position of the front straps 22a, 22b at the front of the patient (when the sling is worn by the patient). This allows for the front pair of front straps 22a, 22b to prevent the patient falling forward. Instead, the patient falling forward comes into contact with the front pair of front straps 22a, 22b, whereby the falling motion is halted.
  • the torso support portion 20 is adapted to wrap around the whole torso of the patient.
  • the sling 100, 200 wherein, when the sling 100 is worn by the patient and the patient is in a seated or lying in bed position, the attachment point of the first torso attachment portion 12a is adapted to be proximal to a front side of the thigh of the patient and the attachment point of the second torso attachment portion 12b is adapted to be proximal to a front side of the other thigh of the patient.
  • the sling 100, 200 as shown in Figure 1, comprises an outer part 40 and an inner part 41 adapted to be attached with stiches, not shown, wherein the stiches are fashioned such that the excess material for the stiches allowance is not exposed to the outer surface of the sling 100, 200.
  • the sling 100, 200 wherein a reinforcement fabric is provided between the outer part 40 and the inner part 41, to which the first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b are anchored, which provide the necessary lift capacity or overall 'strength'.
  • the first and second front strap 22a, 22b are anchored to the reinforcement fabric.
  • the sling 100, 200 wherein the outer part 40 is attached to the inner part 41 by an adhesive.
  • the sling 100, 200 is made of a woven or knitted material.
  • the sling is made of a non-oven material.
  • the sling 100, 200 is made of a wipeable material. Accordingly, the sling is made of non-porous coating or comprise an outer wipeable coating.
  • the sling 100, 200 is made of coated and/or laminated material.
  • the sling 100, 200 is made of disposable material.

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Abstract

A sling 100, 200 for supporting a patient is provided. The sling comprises a first and second leg support portion 11a, 11b and a torso support portion 20. The first and the second leg support portion 11a, 11b each comprises a respective first and second torso attachment portion 5 12a, 12b configured to be attached against a lower long side on the torso support portion 20, which first and second torso attachment portion 12a, 12b are spaced apart from each other on the torso support portion 20. The first and the second leg support portion 11a, 11b each extends from the torso support portion 20 from the respective first and second torso 10 attachment portion 12a, 12b in a curved direction. The sling comprises at least a first and second back suspension strap 21a, 21b each arranged against the respective first and second leg support portion 11a, 11b and have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion 20 and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion 20 towards a 15 respective first connection part 30 arranged on the respective first and second back suspension strap 21a, 21b.

Description

Patient sling
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to the technical field of patient slings. In more detail, the present invention relates to a sling for supporting a patient.
BACKGROUND
Patient lifts, also referred to as patient lifting devices, are commonly used to raise, lower and transfer patients who are disabled or who otherwise have mobility problems. Two common types of patient lifts are stanchion-mounted lifts, also known as floor lifts and ceiling lifts. Floor lifts often have a hoist assembly. The hoist assembly may be disposed at the upper end of a stanchion. The stanchion has a wheeled base, which allows for the lift to be moved along the ground to different locations.
For example, the lift might be wheeled to position the hoist assembly and lifting member over or adjacent to a patient. A lifting member may then be lowered to receive the patient and subsequently raise the lifting member and patient so that they may be wheeled elsewhere to be lowered and placed.
A ceiling lift may be utilized in a similar manner; however, the hoist assembly is movably engaged to ceiling-mounted tracks such that the hoist assembly can be moved about the track from location to location. A ceiling lift may be described as a motor unit movable along a rail, a flexible member is attached to a lifting member in the form of a spreader bar. The motor unit commonly comprises a transmission, batteries and a control module.
Generally, the lifting member which may be in the form of a spreader bar, such as a two-point attachment spreader bar, a three-point attachment spreader bar, a four-point attachment spreader bar, a five- point attachment spreader bar or a powered spreader bar for adjusting the angle of the patient in the spreader bar, for suspending a patient harness or sling.
In order to lift the patient, a patient sling is attached to the spreader bar. The patient is seated or lays on top of the patient sling, whereby the patient lift raises the patient sling and thereby the patient.
Conventional patient slings are usually only suitable for a particular type of lifting such as lifting of seated patients, lifting of laying patients and supporting standing patients. Hence, depending on the lifting operation the hospital personnel may have to switch between different patient slings, which is both cumbersome and time-consuming.
Furthermore, most slings, which are possible to apply to a patient when the patient is in a seated position, are difficult to install and adjust on the patient.
Another issue with such slings is that they are uncomfortable if used for supporting a standing patient, particularly during walking training and in case of fall. This is due to tension applied on the torso support portion of the sling causing the sling to move up on the patient as well as discomfort in the crotch area of the patient. In field of walking training and patient rehabilitation, the usage of so- called dynamic lifts has increased. Dynamic lifts provides dynamic unloading based on the load exerted by the patient to the spreader bar or sling or the elevation of the sling. Hence, when the walking patient begins to fall or lose balance the motor controlling the lift provides additional lifting force allowing the lift to pull the patient back to standing.
This is associated with additional challenges for the sling since the sling has to provide comfortable support even during rapid movement and loading or unloading. A need has been identified for a sling suitable both for dynamic and conventional lifts.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a sling for supporting a patient. The sling comprises a first and second leg support portion and a torso support portion. The first and the second leg support portion each comprises a respective first and second torso attachment portion configured to be attached against a lower long side on the torso support portion, which first and second torso attachment portion are spaced apart from each other on the torso support portion. The first and second leg support portion each comprises a free end portion. The respective free end portions comprises at least a first and second free end connector element adapted to connect with a first connector element arranged on the first leg support portion and adapted to connect with a second connector element arranged on the second leg support portion. The first and the second leg support portion each extends from the torso support portion from the respective first and second torso attachment portion in a curved direction. The sling comprises at least a first and second back suspension strap each arranged against the respective first and second leg support portion at a first and second attachment point. The first and second back suspension strap each have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion towards a respective first connection part arranged on the respective first and second back suspension strap.
In one embodiment, the sling comprising at least a first and a second front strap arranged against the torso support portion. The first and a second front strap each have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion towards a respective at least one coupling member arranged on the respective first and second front strap. The first and the second back suspension strap are arranged between the first and second front strap.
In one embodiment, the sling comprising at least a first and a second front strap are arranged against the respective the first and second leg support portion at a third and fourth attachment point. The first and a second front strap each have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion towards a respective at least one coupling member arranged on the respective first and second front strap. The first and the second back suspension strap are arranged between the first and second front strap. In one embodiment, the torso support portion comprises at least one guiding arrangement, whereby the first and second back suspension straps are adapted to pass through the at least one guiding arrangement for securing a position of the first and second back suspension straps at the back of the patient.
In one embodiment, the at least one guiding arrangement comprises a first guiding loop and a second guiding loop, wherein the first guiding loop is adapted to receive the first back suspension strap and a second guiding loop is adapted to receive the second back suspension strap.
In one embodiment, the at least one guiding arrangement comprises a third guiding loop and a fourth guiding loop, wherein the third guiding loop is adapted to receive the first back suspension strap and a fourth guiding loop is adapted to receive the second back suspension strap.
In one embodiment, the first and second free end connector element comprises a first part of a buckle connector and the connector element comprises the second part of a buckle connector.
In one embodiment, the first and second free end part comprises a first and second multiple loop strap. The leg support portions comprises a guiding arrangement. A first and second end part of the leg support portions are adapted to pass through the guiding arrangement for securing a position of the first and second leg support portions wrapped around the thighs of the patient.
In one embodiment, the first and second free end part comprises hook and loop attachments. In one embodiment, the torso support portion has a back portion adapted to provide back support to the patient when in use.
In one embodiment, the back portion of the torso support portion is provided with at least one handle element.
In one embodiment, during use, and the patient is in a standing position, the attachment point of the first torso attachment portion is adapted to be proximal to an outer side of the hip of the patient and the attachment point of the second torso attachment portion is adapted to be proximal to an outer side of the other hip of the patient.
In one embodiment, the torso support portion is adapted to wrap around the whole torso of the patient.
In one embodiment, the torso support portion comprises at least one pair of coupling connections adapted to releasably connect to the opposite ends of the torso support portion, said at least one pair of coupling connections being arranged to be in front of the patient when the sling is in use.
In one embodiment, the sling comprises an outer part and an inner part adapted to be attached with stiches, wherein the stiches are fashioned such that the excess material for the stiches allowance is not exposed to the outer surface of the sling.
In one embodiment, a reinforcement fabric is provided between the outer part and the inner part to which the at least first and second back suspension straps are anchored. In one embodiment, the stiches are sealed to prevent moisture ingress from exterior sources.
In one embodiment, the outer part is attached to the inner part by an adhesive.
In one embodiment, the leg support portions are padded.
In one embodiment, the torso support portion is padded.
In one embodiment, the sling being made of a woven or knitted material.
In one embodiment, the sling being made of a non-woven material.
In one embodiment, the sling is made of coated and/or laminated material.
In one embodiment, the sling is made of disposable material.
In one embodiment, each of the first and second back suspension straps are provided with at least two coupling members provided along the length of the first and second back suspension straps, the coupling members being configured to couple the sling to a patient lifting device.
In one embodiment, an adjustable back strap is provided at a back part of the torso support portion and configured to alter the distance between the at least first and second back suspension straps.
In one embodiment, the sling, during use, is configured for any one of transferring a patient, ambulating a patient, lifting a patient and providing support for a patient. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will appear from the following detailed description of the invention, wherein embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a front view of a sling according to one embodiment in closed mode.
FIG. 2 is a back view of a sling according to one embodiment in closed mode.
FIG. 3 is a back view of a sling according to one embodiment in open mode.
FIG. 4 is a back view of a sling according to one embodiment in open mode.
FIG. 5 is a back view of a sling according to one embodiment in open mode.
FIG. 6 is a side view of a sling according to one embodiment during use.
FIG. 7 is a side view of a sling according to one embodiment during use.
FIG. 8a-f illustrating a mounting process of a sling according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like reference signs refer to like elements throughout.
Figure 1 and 2 depict a body support sling 100, 200, front and back view in closed mode, i.e. when mounted as it should when in use by a patient. Figure 3 and 4 depicts a body support sling 100, 200 back view in open mode, i.e. when not in use by a patient. The sling 100, 200 is adapted for supporting a patient when connected to a patient lifting device, not shown. The patient lifting device have a spreader bar. The spreader bar is any of a two-point or four-point spreader bar. Supporting may herein refer to providing support to the patient while the patient wears the sling 100, 200. This may be for example during transferring, ambulating, exercising, walking or standing. Thus, the sling 100, 200 is configured for any one of transferring a patient, ambulating a patient, lifting a patient and providing support for a patient, which is standing or walking.
In one embodiment, the patient lifting device is a ceiling lift provided with the spreader bar. In one embodiment, the ceiling lift is a dynamic ceiling lift, which is configured to dynamically unload the patient while the patient moves around, or a conventional ceiling lift, which is configured to raise and lower a patient in a linear manner. In an alternative embodiment, the patient lifting device is a floor lift. The floor lift comprising a wheel-mounted platform with a vertically extending unit provided with the lifting unit, the lifting unit being provided with the spreader bar. In yet another alternative embodiment, the patient lifting device is a rising or standing aid configured to support a patient from a sitting position to a standing position. The patient lifting device have a pivotable lifting member driven to lift the thighs and back of the seated patient in a standing direction.
The sling 100, 200 comprises a leg support portion 10, as shown in Figure 1. The leg support portion 10 is adapted to support the thighs of a patient. Accordingly, the leg support portion 10 is adapted to support the thighs of the patient during use, i.e. worn by the patient.
The sling 100, 200 comprises a torso support portion 20. The torso support portion 20 is adapted to support the torso of the patient. Accordingly, the torso support portion 20 is adapted to support the torso of the patient during use, i.e. worn by the patient.
The sling 100, 200 comprises one or more connecting portions 21a-b, 22a-b, 30. The connection portions is adapted to be attached to the patient lifting device.
In one embodiment, the connecting portion comprises at least a first and second back suspension strap 21a, 21b.
In one embodiment, the connecting portion comprises at least a first and second front straps 22a, 22b. In one embodiment, the at least first and second back suspension strap 21a, 21b are attached to the leg support portion 10, as shown in Figure 1, 3 and 4. The pair of back suspension straps 21a, 21b extends from the lifting device to the leg support portion 10 when the sling is mounted to the patient lifting device. This ensures that the pulling force is directed to the patient hipbone (iliac crest) in order to better emulate the natural sit to stand motion by allowing frontward flexion of the upper body of the patient. Hence, a more ergonomic sling is achieved which also is suitable both for lifting and supporting a standing or walking patient as well as helping a sitting patient to a standing position.
The leg support portion 10 includes a first and a second leg support member 1 la, 1 lb, each adapted to wrap around the thighs of the patient.
The majority of the load is thus taken by the pair of back suspension straps 21a, 21b. The sling allows for better frontward body flexion and better emulates a natural sit to stand motion. In addition, the sling also brings the patient back to a comfortable seated position in case of fall.
In one embodiment, shown in Figure 3 and 4, the sling comprises a first and second leg support portion I la, 11b and a torso support portion 20. The first and the second leg support portion I la, 11b each comprises a respective first and second torso attachment portion 12a, 12b configured to be attached against a lower long side on the torso support portion 20, which first and second torso attachment portion 12a, 12b are spaced apart from each other on the torso support portion 20. The first and second leg support portion I la, 11b each comprises a free end portion 14a, 14b, the respective free end portions 14a, 14b comprises at least a first and second free end connector element 13a, 13b, 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b adapted to connect with a first connector element 15a, 19a, 32a arranged on the first leg support portion I la, and adapted to connect with a second connector element 15b, 19b, 32b arranged on the second leg support portion 11b. The first and the second leg support portion I la, 11b each extends from the torso support portion 20 from the respective first and second torso attachment portion 12a, 12b in a curved direction. The sling comprises at least a first and second back suspension strap 21a, 21b each arranged against the respective first and second leg support portion I la, 11b at a first and second attachment point 17 a, 17b and have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion 20 and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion 20 towards a respective first connection part 30 arranged on the respective first and second back suspension strap 21a, 21b.
With reference to Figure 1, the leg support portion 10 comprises a first leg support member I la and a second leg support member 11b. The first leg support member I la is adapted to wrap around a first thigh of the patient. The second leg support member 11b is adapted to wrap around the second thigh of the patient. The leg support members I la, 11b, i.e. leg bands, wrapping around the thighs of the patient allows for a more comfortable sling.
Further referencing to Figure 1, the first leg support member I la and the second leg support member 11b are arranged such that an upper outer edge of said first leg support member I la and second leg support member 1 lb have a downward inward inclination. Accordingly, the first leg support member I la has an upper edge arranged be inclined from a first higher position proximal to an outer side of the first thigh of the patient to a second lower position proximal to an inner side of the first thigh of the patient, when in use. The second leg support member 1 lb has an upper edge adapted to be inclined from a first higher position proximal to an outer side of the second thigh of the patient to a second lower position proximal to an inner side of the second thigh of the patient, when in use. Hence, the leg support members I la, 11b are considered a shaped leg band, i.e. a leg band following the shape of the thighs of the patient.
The sling 100, 200 have a virtual longitudinal central axis, shown in Figure 1 as a dotted line A, corresponding to the center of the body of the patient when the patient wears the sling. Accordingly, the upper edge of the first leg support member I la extends diagonally and downwards towards the longitudinal central axis A when the sling is worn by the patient. Correspondingly, the upper edge of the second leg support member 11b extend diagonally and downwards towards the longitudinal central axis A when the sling is worn by the patient.
This allows for an improved pressure distribution over the entire thigh, which greatly improves the comfort. Further, the angled position of the leg support members I la, 11b reduces the risk for pinching and the leg band rising in the crotch when in tension.
In one embodiment, the first leg support member I la and the second leg support member 1 lb is padded to further increase the comfort.
In one embodiment, the torso support portion 20 is padded to further increase the comfort. Further referencing Figure 1, the torso support portion 20 is adapted to be wrapped around the torso of the patient. The torso support portion 20 comprise at least one pair of coupling connections 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b, shown in Figure 3 and 4. The at least one pair of coupling connection is configured to releasably connect the opposite ends of the torso support portion 20. The at least one pair of coupling connections is adapted to be in front of the patient when the sling is mounted to or worn by the patient. This makes it easier for the care personnel to mount on and demount the sling 100, 200 from the patient.
The torso support portion 20 comprises a first belt strap and a second belt strap provided at the end parts 29a, 29b of the torso support portion 20, shown in Figure 3 and 4. The first belt strap is provided with a first pair of the coupling connections 25a, 25b. The second belt strap is provided with a second pair of the coupling connection 26a, 26b. The coupling connections are adjustable by means of the belt straps. The belt straps accommodates adjustment for different patient morphologies.
As depicted in Figure 1, each of the back suspension straps 21a, 21b comprise each at least one coupling member 30 configured to couple the sling 100, 200 to the patient hoist. The at least one coupling member 30 is adapted to couple the sling 100, 200 to a spreader bar of the patient lifting device. In one embodiment, the at least one coupling member 30 is in the form of loops.
Turning to Figure 2, 3 and 4 a back view of the sling 100, 200 is provided. The sling has a back portion 27 of the torso support portion 20. The back portion 27 is adapted to provide back support to the patient when the sling is mounted to the patient, i.e. worn by the patient. Thus, the back portion 27 is adapted to be proximal to the back of the patient.
As depicted in Figure 3 and 4, the first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b are attached to a first and second attachment point 17a, 17b provided on the first and second leg support portion I la, 11b of the leg support portion 10.
In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the back portion 27 of the torso support portion 20 has a concave shape. The concave shape is particularly advantageous if the sling is used with a standing and raising aid since it allows easier access for the caregiver for performing hygienic tasks. Furthermore, the concave shape mitigates pressure points, which improves the comfort of the sling.
In one embodiment, the torso support portion 20 is provided with at least one handle element 28, as shown in Figure 3 and 4. The handle element 28 on the back portion allows the caregiver to pull the patient at the back of a chair when seating the patient on the chair with the sling 100, 200.
In one embodiment, at least a first and second front straps 22a, 22b are attached to the torso support portion 20, as shown in Figure 1, 3 and 4. In one aspect, the at least first and second front strap 22a, 22b is arranged against the torso support portion 20 and have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion 20 and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion 20 towards a respective at least one coupling member 30 arranged on the respective first and second front strap 22a, 22b, and wherein the first and the second back suspension strap 21a, 21b are arranged between the first and second front strap 22a, 22b.
In one embodiment, at least a first and second front strap 22a, 22b is attached to the leg support portion 10, as shown in Figure 5. In one aspect, the at least first and a second front strap 22a, 22b are arranged against the respective the first and second leg support portion I la, 1 lb at a third and fourth attachment point 17c, 17d and have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion 20 and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion 20 towards a respective at least one coupling member 30 arranged on the respective first and second front strap 22a, 22b, and wherein the first and the second back suspension strap 21a, 21b are arranged between the first and second front strap 22a, 22b.
Further referencing Figure 1, wherein at least one strap of the pair of front straps 22a, 22b and/or at least one strap of the pair of back suspension straps 21a, 21b are adjustable to adjust the distance between the patient lifting device and the torso support portion 20.
This allows for compensation for a patient having a tilted posture and adjustment of assistance level depending on which activities the patient is performing. Furthermore, it allows adapting the sling 100, 200 to provide clearance for the head for patients having different heights.
In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the torso support portion 20 has back portion with a concave shape with the wider portion being arranged to support the back of the patient, e.g. when the sling is worn by the patient. The front portion, when the sling is worn by the patient, of the torso support portion 20 is arranged to extend adjacent to the ribs and/or chest of the patient. Thus, a central portion, front portion and back portion, of the torso support portion 20 may be wider than a first and second side portion of the torso support portion 20 arranged on each side of a the central portion.
In one embodiment, the sling 100, 200 includes an adjustable back strap 31 provided at a back part of the torso support portion 20 and configured to alter the distance between the at least first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b.
In one embodiment, shown in Figure 4, each of at least first and second front straps 22a, 22b and/or the at least first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b are provided with at least two coupling members 30. The at least two coupling members 30 are provided at a distance from each other along the length of the at least first and second front straps 22a, 22b and/or the at least first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b. The coupling members 30 are configured to couple the sling 100, 200 to the patient lifting device. In one embodiment, the coupling members 30 are configured to couple the sling 100, 200 to the spreader bar.
The at least two coupling members 30 provided on the same strap 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b allows the care personnel to adapt the sling 100, 200 in a simple manner, i.e. by just choosing the appropriate coupling member 30 for attaching to the patient lifting device. Further, it allows for straps 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b with an adjustable length without introduction of additional buckles etc. that makes it more robust and less expensive. In one embodiment, the at least two coupling members 30 may be in the form of loops attached to the strap 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b.
Referring to Figure 1 and 3, the first leg support portions I la comprises a first torso attachment portion 12a. The first torso attachment portion 12a is configured to be attached to the torso support portion 20. Correspondingly, the second leg support portion 11b comprises a second torso attachment portion 12b. The second torso attachment portion 12b is configured to be attached to the torso support portion 20.
As seen in Figure 1, each of the first and second leg support portion I la, 11b comprises a thigh- wrapping portion adapted to wrap around the thighs of the patient. In one aspect, the thigh-wrapping portions are padded. In one aspect, the thigh-wrapping portion comprise a layer of padding or cushioning material. This allows for an increased mobility of the sling for the patient, since relative movement between the torso support portion 20 and the leg support portion 10 is accommodated by the unpadded material of the torso attachment portion 20.
The thigh-wrapping portion of the first leg support portion I la and the second leg support portion 11b each comprises a respective first and second free end portion 14a, 14b. The respective first and second free end portions 14a, 14b comprises a first and second free end connector element 13a, 13b, 16a, 16b (not shown) 18a, 18b, as seen in Figure 1, 3, 4 and 7.
The first free end connector element 13a, 16a, 18a is adapted to connect with a first connector element 15a, 19a, 32a arranged on the first leg support portion I la, and the second free end connector element 13b, 16b, 18b is adapted to connect with a second connector element 15b, 19b, 32b arranged on the second leg support portion 11b. The connector elements are connected proximal to the front of the first and second thigh of the patient when the sling 100, 200 is worn by the patient. Thus, the hospital personnel may access the connector elements easily when mounting the sling 100, 200 to the patient, making the sling more user friendly. In one aspect, shown in Figure 1 and 3, the first and second free end connector element 13 a, 13b comprises a first part of a buckle connectors and the connector element 15a, 15b comprises the second part of a buckle connector. In one aspect, shown in Figure 4, 6 and 8a-f, the first and second free end connector element 18a, 18b comprises multiple loops, which are coupled through a first and second support guiding loop 19a, 19b, provided on the first and second leg support member I la, 11b, and the first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b, respectively. In one aspect, shown in Figure 7, the first and second free end connector element 16a, 16b are configured as a hook and loop attachment strap adapted to be guided through a guiding arrangement 32a, 32b on respective first and second leg support member 1 la, 1 lb.
Again referencing Figure 3 and 4, in one embodiment, the torso support portion 20 comprise a guiding arrangement 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b. The pair of back suspension straps 21a, 21b are adapted to pass through the guiding arrangement 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b for limiting relative movement between the leg support portion 10 and the torso support portion 20. Thus, a more stable sling, which provides more support to the patient during walking, standing or exercising, is achieved. The pair of back suspension straps 21a, 21b are adapted to pass through the guiding arrangement for securing a position of the back suspension straps 21a, 21b at the back of the patient (when the sling is worn by the patient). Thus, the guiding arrangement 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b is arranged to allow for sliding movement of the pair of suspension straps 21a, 22b along the length of said pair of suspension straps 21a, 21b.
In one embodiment, the guiding arrangement 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b is in the form of loops. In one embodiment, shown in Figure 3 and 4, the guiding arrangement comprises a first guiding loop 23a and a second guiding loop 23b. The first guiding loop 23a is adapted to receive the first back suspension strap 21a. The second guiding loop 23b is adapted to receive the second back suspension strap 21b. In one embodiment, shown in Figure 4, the guiding arrangement comprises a third guiding loop 24a, and a fourth guiding loop 24b. The third guiding loop 24a is adapted to receive the first back suspension strap 21a. The fourth guiding loop 24b is adapted to receive the second back suspension strap 21b.
Referencing Figure 4 and 6, the first leg support portion I la and the second leg support portion 11b comprises a first and second free end 14a, 14b connectable by means of a first and second multiple loop strap 18a, 18b. Figure 8a-f shows how to connect and secure the first and second free ends 14a, 14b wrapped around the thighs of the patient. The mounting steps are explained further below.
Step 1 (shown in Figure 8a): Wrap the leg support portion I la, 11b around the thigh of the patient.
Step 2 (shown in Figure 8b): Pass the first and second multiple loop strap 18a, 18b through a respective first and second leg support guiding loop 19a, 19b. Step 3 (shown in Figure 8c and 8d): Pass the first and second back suspension support straps 21a, 21b trough one loop of the respective first and second multiple loop strap 18a, 18b and further through the first and second guiding loop 23a, 23b.
Step 4, (shown in Figure 8e) - optional, if there is a third and fourth guiding loop 24a, 24b, pass the first and second back suspension support strap 21a, 21b through the third and fourth guiding loop 24a, 24b.
Figure 8f shows the final result, i.e. the sling worn by a user, patient, of the mounting steps shown in Figure 8a-e.
In one embodiment, the mounting process includes step 1, 3. The result is shown in Figure 6.
The first back suspension strap 21a is attached to an attachment point 17a of the first leg support portion I la. The second back suspension strap 21b is attached to an attachment point 17b of the second leg support portion 11b. The attachment point 17a of the first leg support portion 1 la is provided at a position, which will be proximal to the outer side of a first thigh of the patient when in use. Outer side herein refers to the distant side of the first thigh relative the longitudinal center axis A. The attachment point 17b of the second leg support portion 11b is provided at a position, which will be proximal to the outer side of a second thigh of the patient when in use. Outer side herein refers to the distant side of the second thigh relative the longitudinal center axis A.
Hence, a portion the first suspension strap 21a is adapted to extend along at least a portion of the outer side of the first thigh when the patient is in a standing position. A portion of the second suspension strap 21b is adapted to extend along at least a portion of the outer side of the second thigh when the patient is in a standing position. This allows for support around the iliac crest of the patient. Thereby, the support provided by the sling 100, 200 is provided in a manner, which more naturally follows the anatomy of the patient making it more comfortable and suitable for usage in cases where the patient performs training actions. Further, this allows for further support and additional comfort when the patient is in the standing position in the sling.
In Figure 6 and 7, a patient supported by means of the sling 100, 200 in a standing position is depicted. In the standing position, the torso support portion 20 supports the back of the patient while the leg support portion 10 supports, i.e. unloads and/or carries the back of the thighs of the patient.
Referencing Figure 3 and 4, the torso support portion 20 comprises at least a first and second front strap 22 a, 22b attached to the torso support portion 20 for securing a position of the front straps 22a, 22b at the front of the patient (when the sling is worn by the patient). This allows for the front pair of front straps 22a, 22b to prevent the patient falling forward. Instead, the patient falling forward comes into contact with the front pair of front straps 22a, 22b, whereby the falling motion is halted.
In one embodiment, the torso support portion 20 is adapted to wrap around the whole torso of the patient.
The sling 100, 200 wherein the first and second end part 14a, 14b comprises hook and loop attachments 16. The sling 100, 200 wherein, during use, and the patient is in a standing position, the attachment point of the first torso attachment portion 12a is adapted to be proximal to an outer side of the hip of the patient and the attachment point of the second torso attachment portion 12b is adapted to be proximal to an outer side of the other hip of the patient.
The sling 100, 200 wherein, when the sling 100 is worn by the patient and the patient is in a seated or lying in bed position, the attachment point of the first torso attachment portion 12a is adapted to be proximal to a front side of the thigh of the patient and the attachment point of the second torso attachment portion 12b is adapted to be proximal to a front side of the other thigh of the patient.
The sling 100, 200, as shown in Figure 1, comprises an outer part 40 and an inner part 41 adapted to be attached with stiches, not shown, wherein the stiches are fashioned such that the excess material for the stiches allowance is not exposed to the outer surface of the sling 100, 200.
The sling 100, 200 wherein a reinforcement fabric is provided between the outer part 40 and the inner part 41, to which the first and second back suspension straps 21a, 21b are anchored, which provide the necessary lift capacity or overall 'strength'. In one aspect, the first and second front strap 22a, 22b are anchored to the reinforcement fabric.
The sling 100, 200 wherein the stiches are sealed to prevent moisture ingress from exterior sources.
The sling 100, 200 wherein the outer part 40 is attached to the inner part 41 by an adhesive. In one embodiment, the sling 100, 200 is made of a woven or knitted material. In an alternative embodiment, the sling is made of a non-oven material.
In one embodiment, the sling 100, 200 is made of a wipeable material. Accordingly, the sling is made of non-porous coating or comprise an outer wipeable coating.
In one embodiment, the sling 100, 200 is made of coated and/or laminated material.
In one embodiment, the sling 100, 200 is made of disposable material.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" "comprising," "includes" and/or "including" when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
The foregoing has described the principles, preferred embodiments and modes of operation of the present invention. However, the invention should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive, and not as being limited to the particular embodiments discussed above. The different features of the various embodiments of the invention can be combined in other combinations than those explicitly described. It should therefore be appreciated that variations may be made in those embodiments by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the following claims.
Reference numbers
100, 200 sling
10 leg support portion
I la first leg support member
11b second leg support member
12a, b torso attachment portion
14a first free end portion
14b second free end portion
13a first free end connector
13b second free end connector
15a, b first leg support portion connector element
16a, b hook and loop attachment strap
17a first attachment point
17b second attachment point
17c third attachment point
17d fourth attachment point
18a, b multiple loop strap
19a, b leg support guiding loop
20 torso support portion
21a connecting portion/ first back suspension strap
21b connecting portion/ second back suspension strap
22a connecting portion/ first front strap
22b connecting portion/ second front strap
23a, b guiding loop
24a, b guiding loop
25 a, b coupling connection a, b coupling connection back portion handle element a, b first and second end parts of the torso support portion coupling member/ connecting portion back strap a, b guiding arrangement on the leg support member outer part inner part

Claims

1. A sling (100, 200) for supporting a patient, the sling comprises a first and second leg support portion (I la, 11b) and a torso support portion (20), the first and the second leg support portion (I la, 11b) each comprises a respective first and second torso attachment portion (12a, 12b) configured to be attached against a lower long side on the torso support portion (20), which first and second torso attachment portion (12a, 12b) are spaced apart from each other on the torso support portion (20), the first and second leg support portion (I la, 11b) each comprises a free end portion (14a, 14b), the respective free end portions (14a, 14b) comprises at least a first and second free end connector element (13a, 13b, 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b) adapted to connect with a first connector element (15a, 19a, 32a) arranged on the first leg support portion (I la), and adapted to connect with a second connector element (15b, 19b, 32b) arranged on the second leg support portion (11b), the first and the second leg support portion (I la, 11b) each extends from the torso support portion (20) from the respective first and second torso attachment portion (12a, 12b) in a curved direction, characterized in that, the sling comprises at least a first and second back suspension strap (21a, 21b) each arranged against the respective first and second leg support portion (I la, 11b) at a first and second attachment point (17a, 17b) and have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion (20) and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion (20) towards a respective first connection part (30) arranged on the respective first and second back suspension strap (21a, 21b).
2. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, comprising at least a first and a second front strap (22a, 22b) arranged against the torso support portion (20) and have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion (20) and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion (20) towards a respective at least one coupling member (30) arranged on the respective first and second front strap (22a, 22b), and wherein the first and the second back suspension strap (21a, 21b) are arranged between the first and second front strap (22a, 22b).
3. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, comprising at least a first and a second front strap (22a, 22b) are arranged against the respective the first and second leg support portion (I la, 11b) at a third and fourth attachment point (17c, 17d) and have an extension across the lower long side on the torso support portion (20) and pass an upper long side on the torso support portion (20) towards a respective at least one coupling member (30) arranged on the respective first and second front strap (22a, 22b), and wherein the first and the second back suspension strap (21a, 21b) are arranged between the first and second front strap (22a, 22b).
4. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the torso support portion (20) comprises at least one guiding arrangement (23a, 23b, 24a, 24b), whereby the first and second back suspension straps (21a, 21b) are adapted to pass through the at least one guiding arrangement (23a, 23b, 24a, 24b) for securing a position of the first and second back suspension straps (21a, 21b) at the back of the patient.
5. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 2, wherein the at least one guiding arrangement comprises a first guiding loop (23a) and a second guiding loop (23b), wherein the first guiding loop (23a) is adapted to receive the first back suspension strap (21a) and a second guiding loop (23b) is adapted to receive the second back suspension strap (21b).
6. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 3, wherein the at least one guiding arrangement comprises a third guiding loop (24a) and a fourth guiding loop (24b), wherein the third guiding loop (24a) is adapted to receive the first back suspension strap (21a) and a fourth guiding loop (24b) is adapted to receive the second back suspension strap (21b).
7. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the first and second free end connector element (13a, 13b) comprises a first part of a buckle connectors and the connector element (15a, 15b) comprises the second part of a buckle connector.
8. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the first and second free end part (14a, 14b) comprises a first and second multiple loop strap (18a, 18b) wherein the leg support portions (I la, 11b) comprises a guiding arrangement (19a, 19b), whereby a first and second end parts (18a, 18b) of the leg support portions (I la, 11b) are adapted to pass through the guiding arrangement (19a, 19b) for securing a position of the first and second leg support portions (I la, 11b) wrapped around the thighs of the patient.
9. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the first and second free end part (14a, 14b) comprises hook and loop attachments (16a, 16b).
10. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the torso support portion (20) has a back portion (27) adapted to provide back support to the patient when in use.
11. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 10, wherein the back portion (27) of the torso support portion (20) is provided with at least one handle element (28).
12. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein, during use, and the patient is in a standing position, the attachment point of the first torso attachment portion (12a) is adapted to be proximal to an outer side of the hip of the patient and the attachment point of the second torso attachment portion (12b) is adapted to be proximal to an outer side of the other hip of the patient.
13. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the torso support portion (20) is adapted to wrap around the whole torso of the patient.
14. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the torso support portion (20) comprises at least one pair of coupling connections (25a, 25b, 26a, 26b) adapted to releasably connect to the opposite ends of the torso support portion (20), said at least one pair of coupling connections (25a, 25b, 26a, 26b) being arranged to be in front of the patient when the sling (100, 200) is in use.
15. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the sling (100, 200) comprises an outer part (40) and an inner part (41) adapted to be attached with stiches, wherein the stiches are fashioned such that the excess material for the stiches allowance is not exposed to the outer surface of the sling (100, 200).
16. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 15, wherein a reinforcement fabric is provided between the outer part (40) and the inner part (41) to which the at least first and second back suspension straps (21a, 21b) are anchored.
17. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 15, wherein the stiches are sealed to prevent moisture ingress from exterior sources.
18. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 15, wherein the outer part (40) is attached to the inner part (41) by an adhesive.
19. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the leg support portions (I la, 1 lb) are padded.
20. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the torso support portion (20) is padded.
21. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, the sling (100, 200) being made of a woven or knitted material.
22. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, the sling (100, 200) being made of a non-woven material.
23. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the sling (100, 200) is made of coated and/or laminated material.
24. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the sling (100, 200) is made of disposable material.
25. The sling (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second back suspension straps (21a, 21b) are provided with at least two coupling members (30) provided along the length of the first and second back suspension straps (21a, 21b), the coupling members (30) being configured to couple the sling (100, 200) to a patient lifting device.
26. The sling (100, 200) according to claims 1, comprising an adjustable back strap (31) provided at a back part of the torso support portion and configured to alter the distance between the at least first and second back suspension straps (21a, 21b).
27. The sling (100, 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sling (100, 200), during use, is configured for any one of transferring a patient, ambulating a patient, lifting a patient and providing support for a patient.
PCT/SE2024/050904 2023-10-24 2024-10-24 Patient sling Pending WO2025090005A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2024367995A AU2024367995A1 (en) 2023-10-24 2024-10-24 Patient sling

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
SE2330474A SE546988C2 (en) 2023-10-24 2023-10-24 Patient sling
SE2330474-4 2023-10-24

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2025090005A1 true WO2025090005A1 (en) 2025-05-01

Family

ID=95066163

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/SE2024/050904 Pending WO2025090005A1 (en) 2023-10-24 2024-10-24 Patient sling

Country Status (3)

Country Link
AU (1) AU2024367995A1 (en)
SE (1) SE546988C2 (en)
WO (1) WO2025090005A1 (en)

Citations (5)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3424134A (en) * 1966-12-12 1969-01-28 Irvin Industries Inc Industrial safety harness
US3701395A (en) * 1971-05-14 1972-10-31 Stuart J Theobald Rescue and safety vest
US20070272484A1 (en) * 2006-05-25 2007-11-29 Helms James K Safety harness
US8584799B1 (en) * 2011-06-28 2013-11-19 Mark Dennington Fall-arresting safety harness assembly
US20190133860A1 (en) * 2017-09-07 2019-05-09 University Of Utah Birthing harness

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2012135911A1 (en) * 2011-04-05 2012-10-11 Quixote Pty Ltd Birthing harness and methods of use thereof

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3424134A (en) * 1966-12-12 1969-01-28 Irvin Industries Inc Industrial safety harness
US3701395A (en) * 1971-05-14 1972-10-31 Stuart J Theobald Rescue and safety vest
US20070272484A1 (en) * 2006-05-25 2007-11-29 Helms James K Safety harness
US8584799B1 (en) * 2011-06-28 2013-11-19 Mark Dennington Fall-arresting safety harness assembly
US20190133860A1 (en) * 2017-09-07 2019-05-09 University Of Utah Birthing harness

Also Published As

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SE2330474A1 (en) 2025-03-25
SE546988C2 (en) 2025-03-25
AU2024367995A1 (en) 2026-04-09

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