A new powered device to help with patient transfers
Refinement and Evaluation of Group 3 Powered Personal Transfer System
This project develops a new powered device to make it easier and safer for patients to move between beds, chairs, and toilets, reducing strain on both patients and their caregivers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11077694 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many patients need help moving, and current methods often put caregivers at high risk for back pain and injuries. Existing mechanical lifts have drawbacks, like difficult installation in homes or being hard to maneuver. We are creating an improved powered transfer device that aims to be safer, more comfortable, and easier to use for both patients and those who care for them. This new device could help people with mobility challenges maintain more independence and participate more fully in their communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with mobility impairments who require assistance with transfers between a bed, chair, or toilet, and their caregivers.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require assistance with transfers or those with conditions that prevent the safe use of mechanical transfer devices may not receive direct benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this device could significantly reduce the risk of injury for caregivers, make transfers more comfortable and dignified for patients, and potentially increase patient independence.
How similar studies have performed: While existing mechanical transfer devices have shown some success in reducing caregiver injuries, this project focuses on developing a novel powered system to overcome their current shortcomings.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- Veterans Health Administration — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duvall, Jonathan — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Duvall, Jonathan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.