Sling overview and materials

Patient slings

Choose the right sling for the right task in the right fabric.

With all the different styles of patient lift slings, it can be difficult to decide which are best for your facility. In fact, choosing the right sling for the right resident and care task can be critical. To better help you understand your options, we’ve put together this guide.

Full body slings

This style of patient sling is available in several reusable fabrics. The most popular is a mesh fabric that can be used for bathing with a commode opening for toileting.

U-shaped seated slings

These slings are ideal for lifting to or from a chair, toileting, peri-care and bathing. Utilizing the different lengths of straps you can lift in a seated or reclined position. The construction of this sling allows for easier application and removal. All variations of these slings are available with or without head support, for different resident acuity.

Repositioning slings

Developed with accessibility in mind, repositioning slings are made of breathable materials that can be left under residents so that they are readily available for any and all lifting needs. They are primarily used with highly dependent residents. Common care tasks include transferring to bed or chair, in-bed repositioning and turning.

Accessory slings

There are several accessory slings available that can be important for common care tasks, including turning a resident, or lifting a resident’s limb. These tasks are commonly performed manually and can contribute to staff injury.

Additional questions about Medline’s patient lift slings?

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your Medline Representative with additional questions. They will connect you with our Safe Patient Handling product experts for assistance.

Will these slings work with existing patient lift equipment?

Compatibility of slings with your lift equipment is simple. Contact your Medline Representative to assist in determining which style of Medline sling is appropriate for your current lift equipment.

Sling materials

Most of Medline’s slings are available in either reusable or disposable fabrics. We recommend discussing what would be best for your facility, but factors that may influence your decision include laundering capabilities, infection prevention, and safety considerations.

Polypropylene

Non-launderable polypropylene slings are designed for single-resident use. It has the reliable strength for high weight capacities.

Knitted

This fabric has just the right amount of “give” for a secure, comfortable and easy fit. But don’t let it fool you. This heavy-duty choice is designed to withstand high weight capacities and rigorous healthcare use.

Textured grip

Strong and flexible, soft to the touch, neoprene adds advanced functionality to a standard sling.

Polyester mesh

Ultra-strong and soft to the touch. The synthetic material retains its brilliant color, wash after wash. Skillful workmanship and reinforced stitching support high weight capacities.

Hybrid microfiber nylon

Soft, breathable microfiber top and smooth nylon bottom. The skinfriendly, breathable material can remain in bed with the resident throughout their length of stay (single-resident use).

Spacer

Warp-knitted polyester “spacer” fabric redistributes pressure and reduces shear to protect skin, while it is also breathable and comfortable. This material is reusable and can be left under residents.

Padded flannel

Soft flannel provides a secure and easy fit as comfortable as your favorite shirt. Yet strong enough to support residents up to 450 lbs.

Synthetic polyester

Strong and durable, it supports high weight capacities and retains its color longer than traditional reusable fabrics.