HighStar deluxe recline sling with head support, spacer

The HighStar Deluxe Recline with head support is a full-body spacer sling for a loop-bar floor or ceiling lift, made in Canada in seven sizes.

What does it do and how does it work?

It supports the person from shoulders to knees and holds them seated or reclined.

• The spacer body has no seam through the back, so pressure spreads without creases, and soft fabric over the straps keeps the webbing off the skin.
• Shoulder and leg loops are colour coded. The same colour each side keeps the transfer level.
• A sewn-in head panel supports the head and neck.

Who is it for, and who should choose something else?

It suits people with amputations, fragile skin, or long periods in a sling.

• Not a toileting sling. A hygiene sling keeps the bottom accessible.
• A sit to stand sling gives more room to assist someone who can bear weight.

Will it fit?

Choose the size by weight, then check the height.

• Seven sizes, child to XXL, item 114311 to 114317.
• Safe working load: child, junior and small 450 lb (204 kg); medium 650 lb (295 kg); large, XL and XXL 1000 lb (454 kg).
• Guide: child under 55 lb (25 kg), junior under 110 lb (50 kg), small 95 to 150 lb (43 to 68 kg), medium 150 to 240 lb (68 to 109 kg), large 240 to 350 lb (109 to 159 kg), XL 350 to 450 lb (159 to 204 kg), XXL over 400 lb (181 kg). Bands overlap, so check the label.
• The lift must suit the person too. The lower limit applies.

Using it day to day

Apply it while the person is lying down.

• Keep the label outside and line the darts up with the hips.
• Thread the long leg straps through the middle loop, then attach every loop to the bar.
• For a 90 degree seat, use short shoulder loops and longer leg loops.
• Check each loop before lifting.
• Wash in a laundry bag up to 80 C (176 F), with no bleach, iron or dry cleaning. Air dry or tumble cool.

What does it work with, and what are its limits?

It fits floor or ceiling lifts that accept loop slings. The lift and bar are not included.

• Stay within the safe working load for the size.
• Inspect for tears, rips and frays before each use, and check the label.
• Withdraw it at the first sign of wear or an illegible label.
• A cared-for sling lasts about 2 to 3 years, a service life rather than a warranty.

Which version should I choose?

This version has the head support; the same sling is sold without it, in seven sizes.

How does it compare?

See all full-body slings.

• The HighStar hammock spacer sling has an opening at the base of the spine.
• The HighStar hygiene sling is woven and built for toileting.

Funding may help: see who may help pay.