Patent ID: 8677525
Filing Date: 2014-03-25
Classification: A61G

Abstract:
1. A method of lifting a patient on a patient support with a patient lifting apparatus, the method comprising: splitting the patient lifting apparatus into two side sections where each side section is maneuverable independently of the other; positioning the side sections on opposite sides of the patient support; connecting the side sections together to form a unitary structure comprised of the two side sections and wherein when connected together the two side sections are disposed in spaced apart relationship and define an open space between the two side sections; connecting a lifting bar associated with each side section to the patient support; actuating a lifting device on each side section where the lifting device is operatively connected to the lifting bar and wherein the actuation of the lifting devices on each side section causes the lifting bar to raise and at the same time raise the patient support which is connected to the lifting bars; and wherein the patient lifting apparatus includes a plurality of connecting bars that extend transversely between the two side sections where the two side sections are connected together; wherein the method includes removing at least one connecting bar extending across one end of the patient lifting apparatus so as to form an unobstructed opening into an area between the two side sections; and inserting the patient support or other patient carrying device into the open area between the two side sections.