Apr 3rd 2025

What is the Difference Between a Manual and an Electric Patient Lift

For individuals facing mobility challenges, having the right medical devices can greatly improve their quality of life and assist with daily activities. In particular, patient lifts can ensure safe and comfortable transfers for people requiring assistance moving from one location to another.

However, you should be aware that patient lifts come in two types: manual and electric. This article will explore the key differences between the two, helping you, caregivers, and patients decide which type best suits their preferences.

What Is a Manual Patient Lift?

A manual patient lift is a device that assists caregivers in safely transferring patients with limited mobility. These lifts come in various forms, each built to satisfy specific needs and settings. Using them also achieves ease of use, portability, and efficiency in patient care.

Manual patient lift comes in different types:

Hydraulic Patient Lifts. These lifts are operated using a manual pump system to lift and lower the patient, making them a cost-effective and portable choice often used in home settings.
Sit-to-Stand Manual Lifts. This sit-to-stand lift assists patients in transitioning from a seated to a standing position. It is typically used for rehabilitation, helping patients regain strength and balance with minimal caregiver assistance.
Folding Lifts. Designed for easy transport and storage, folding lifts are ideal for caregivers who need to transfer the lift between multiple locations or store it away when not in use. They offer versatility and convenience in settings with limited space.

What Is an Electric Patient Lift?

An electric patient lift is an advanced mobility aid to facilitate the safe and efficient transfer of patients with limited mobility through the use of a battery-powered motor. These lifts minimize physical strain on caregivers and are suitable for home and clinical settings.

Below are the several types of electric patient lifts:

Electric Patient Lifts. These lifts, operated using a battery-powered motor, offer easy and smooth lifting and lowering with minimal effort for the caregiver, making them ideal in settings where frequent lifting is required due to their efficiency and ease of use.
Electric Sit-to-Stand Lifts. These are similar to manual sit-to-stand lifts but powered for easier operation. These lifts are suited for patients who can bear some weight, assisting them in standing while reducing strain on the caregiver.
Ceiling-Mounted Lifts. These electrically powered lifts are installed on tracks mounted to the ceiling. Ceiling lifts are ideal for environments with limited floor space, providing seamless transfers between locations, such as from bed to bathroom.
Bariatric Electric Lifts. Specifically designed to handle heavier weight capacities than standard lifts, these devices provide enhanced support and stability for larger patients, ensuring a safe range of transfers in healthcare environments.
Portable Electric Lifts. Compact and battery-operated, these portable lifts have a compact design for easy transport between locations. They are convenient for temporary use or when a lift needs to be shared across multiple settings.

The Main Difference Between Manual and Electric Patient Lifts

The main difference between manual and electric patient lifts is their operation, energy source, and convenience for caregivers and patients. Both types of lifts are designed to assist in safely transferring individuals with limited mobility, but they serve distinct needs and preferences. Here's a detailed explanation of each patient lift:

	Manual Patient Lifts	Electric Patient Lifts
Operation	Manual patient lifts operate through hydraulic or mechanical systems and require physical strain from a caregiver to pump a handle or crank a lever. The hydraulic lift system uses fluid pressure to raise and lower the arm, which supports and transfers the patient.	Electric patient lifts are powered by a battery or plug into an electrical outlet. They are operated with a control panel or remote, allowing the caregiver to lift and lower the patient with minimal physical effort by pushing a button.
Energy Source	As the name suggests, manual lifts do not require electricity or batteries, making them suitable for use in settings where power may not be readily available.	These medical equipment depend on electric power and need a charged battery or a nearby power source. Most models offer rechargeable batteries, which can be used, relocated, or transferred in areas without outlets.
Cost and Maintenance	Typically, manual lifts are more cost-effective than electric lifts. They have fewer mechanical components, which may result in lower maintenance costs and less frequent repairs.	Electric lifts are generally more expensive due to their complex mechanisms and power requirements. They may require regular battery maintenance and periodic electrical component checks to understand their current state.
Usage and Suitability	Manual lifts can be advantageous in home settings or facilities with budget constraints. However, operating them will require some physical strength and effort from the caregiver, which may not be ideal for all users.	Ideal for settings with high patient transfer needs or where caregivers may lack the physical strength to operate a manual lift effectively. Electric lifts provide a more effortless and often quicker transfer process.
Features and Comfort	Since manual lifts don't rely on power, they can be used in any location without worrying about battery charge or electrical outlets.	Many electric lifts offer advanced features such as adjustable speed settings, enhanced comfort slings, and additional safety mechanisms to offer a smoother and safer operation for the patient and caregiver.

Manual or Electric Patient Lift: Which One Is Suitable For You?

You should always consider which type of lift will most meet your needs. People would sometimes choose manual patient lifts because they're cheaper, while others would prefer electric to make lifting easier. If you're indecisive, below are several factors you need to consider when purchasing a versatile patient lift system:

	Manual Lifts	Electric Lifts
Operational Effort	Manual lifts require physical strength and effort to operate since caregivers must manually pump or crank the lift to raise and lower the patient. This effort can be taxing, especially if the caregiver is not physically strong or patient transfers are frequent.	Electric lifts eliminate the need for physical exertion, as they operate with the push of a button. This can be advantageous for caregivers with limited strength or where the volume of transfers is high.
Cost	Manual lifts are generally more cost-effective, making them suitable for budget-conscious people. They have fewer mechanical parts, which translates into lower initial costs.	Electric lifts are more expensive due to their complexity, additional features, and power requirements. Despite the higher cost, the ease of use and extra convenience can justify the investment, particularly in settings with frequent use.
Frequency of Use	Manual lifts may be suitable for environments where transfers are infrequent, or multiple caregivers can share the physical effort.	Electric lifts are ideal for frequent or heavy-use situations, such as hospitals or nursing homes, where quick and efficient patient handling is vital.
Portability and Space	Manual lifts are often more portable and have a lightweight design, making them easier to move between different locations without concern for power availability.	Electric lifts require battery charging or proximity to an electrical outlet, potentially limiting portability. However, they often come with features like foldable bases to improve transportability within a facility.
Setting and Environment	Manual lifts can be more practical for home settings or temporary use, especially where electrical outlets may be limited or the space is constrained.	Electric lifts are well-suited for professional healthcare settings where efficiency and speed are prioritized, and electrical infrastructure is robust.
Patient Comfort and Safety	Manual lifts can be less smooth in operation, possibly leading to a jerky transfer process and making patients uncomfortable.	Electric lifts generally offer smoother, more controlled movements, with many models featuring additional safety mechanisms like adjustable speed settings and emergency stop functions that improve patient comfort and security.
Maintenance	Manual lifts typically require minimal maintenance due to their simpler mechanical design. This means lesser downtime and repair costs.	Electric lifts demand regular battery maintenance and occasional checks on electrical components to check their reliability, which may involve higher maintenance costs and effort.

How to Properly Use an Electric or Manual Patient Lift With Slings

Caregivers are highly trained to use patient lifts, allowing them to transfer their patients easily. But if you're new to using one, you must learn the basics to avoid delays or injuries. Here are the proper steps for using an electric or patient lift with sling straps:

1. Preparation and Safety Checks

Start by inspecting the lift. Perform a routine safety check by examining the lift for any signs of damage or wear, especially the stability of the base and the condition of the hydraulic pump. Check the sling for any tears or fraying. Free up the environment around the lift of obstacles that could impede movement. Confirm that the patient is comfortable with the process and explain each step to them to ease any anxiety.

For electric models, keep the battery sufficiently charged or plugged in if operating on AC power. It's better if the lift is plugged in to provide constant electricity flow during the transfer process.

2. Positioning the Sling

Carefully roll the patient to one side and place the folded sling under half of the patient's body. Roll the patient back onto the sling, then to the other side, pulling the remaining half of the sling through. The sling should be positioned to extend from the shoulders down to the tailbone or knees. Make sure that it's flat and free of twists for even weight distribution. Safely and comfortably return the patient to a resting position on their back.

3. Attaching the Sling to the Lift

Move the lift close to the patient while seeing if the base legs are properly spread to provide stability. Attach the sling's hooks or loops to the lift's designated attachment points. Double-check that the connections are secure. Each sling will have specific attachment points for the shoulders and legs, and it's vital to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for positioning to achieve safety and balance during the lift.

4. Lifting the Patient

With the sling securely attached, begin pumping the hydraulic handle slowly and steadily. This action gradually raises the patient off the surface until they are high enough to clear any obstacles. Maintain constant communication with the patient during this process, reassuring and keeping them comfortable. Make sure the patient remains centered within the sling, not leaning to one side.

On the other hand, electric lifts are fairly easy to use. You only need to push buttons on the handheld remote control or panel. The lifting motion is slow, so you don't have to worry about sudden jerks that could scare the patient.

5. Moving the Patient

Gently push the lift to the desired location, making sure that the path is clear of obstacles. Use slow, deliberate movements to maintain control and prevent any swinging. If you need to turn, handle the lift carefully to keep the patient balanced.

6. Lowering the Patient

Position the lift over the destination surface and align the patient properly. Gradually release the hydraulic pressure or use the remote control to lower the patient slowly and smoothly onto the surface. Monitor the patient during the descent, making any necessary adjustments to the sling to maintain proper positioning.

7. Detaching the Sling

Once the patient is safely seated or lying down, detach the sling from the lift. Carefully remove the sling from beneath the patient by rolling it gently from side to side if needed. Check if the patient is comfortable and make adjustments to keep them in a comfortable and stable position.

Looking for Quality Electric and Manual Patient Lifts? Talk to Aracent Healthcare Now!

When searching for patient lifts, you need to get them from a reputable supplier to ensure they function properly and use high-grade materials. Fortunately, you have Aracent Healthcare to provide these electric and manual models. You can trust that our products follow industry standards, so you can trust that they are safe to use on patients.

Our patient lifts can be used by a seasoned caregiver or a professional healthcare provider. Our lifts are easy to operate, and some can be accessorized for a better patient experience, such as a digital scale.

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