Handicare spacer universal sling with head support, small 8A4530

The Handicare Universal Spacer sling with head support, item 8A4530, is a full-body sling for floor and ceiling lifts. This is the small size, in spacer fabric with black trim.

What does it do and how does it work?

It lifts a person from a seated or lying position with support under the trunk and thighs.

• It has a toileting opening when clothing is removed.
• The tapered head support holds the head and neck; the hip strap and leg pads support the trunk and thighs.
• The breathable spacer fabric can stay under the person between transfers; other fabrics should not be left in place.
• The sling is rated 625 lb (283 kg).

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

It suits a person with limited upper body function and tone, including someone with little head or neck control.

• If the person needs no head support, choose the 8A4x00 version instead.
• Other fabrics are mesh, mesh/poly, polyslip and quilted.
• A person who needs a divided-leg sling for a different transfer needs another shape.

Will it fit?

The small measures 35 in (89 cm) from the shoulder strap to the bottom of the leg pads, 32 in (81 cm) across the shoulders and 33.5 in (85 cm) across the hips.

• The leg section is 22 in (56 cm) long, and the leg straps are 18.5 in (47 cm).
• The maker's inch figures are approximate within 1 in, so a clinician checks the fit.
• The same range comes in 8A4730, 8A4630, 8A4430 (medium), 8A4330 (large) and 8A4230 (extra large).

Using it day to day

From a seated position, tuck the sling behind the back with the tag outside, the bottom edge just below the tailbone, then tuck the leg bands under the thighs.

• Bring the straps through the loop at the base of the leg section, then attach the loops to the carry bar.
• Use the same colour loops on both sides; short loops suit the shoulders and long loops the legs for an upright seated position.
• Stop when the straps tighten, while the person is still on the surface, and check the sling has not shifted.
• Wash at 176 F (80 C) in a laundry bag, and discard a torn or defective sling.

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

It fits Handicare loop-style carry bars and works with a floor or ceiling lift.

• The expected life is up to 4 years, depending on use and washing.
• Inspect the straps, stitching and fabric before each use.
• Never exceed the 625 lb (283 kg) rating or the lift's rating.

How does it compare?

• Full body slings lists the other universal and full-back shapes.
• Hoyer Pro full-back sling is a different family for Hoyer lifts.
• Slings lists the full range.

Handicare's warranty is on the Warranty tab.

Funding help for a patient lift sling in Ontario

Depending on the person's needs and assessment, funding may be available for mobility equipment in Ontario. Our team works with funding programs every week and can point you to the right route before you buy. See our funding guide or call (905) 798-1853.