Improving powered devices for safer patient transfers
Official title: Refinement and Evaluation of Group 3 Powered Personal Transfer System
Funded at Veterans Health Administration · NIH-10861386 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new powered device to help caregivers safely move patients between beds, chairs, and toilets, making the process easier and more comfortable for everyone involved.
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 start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 1IK2RX004248-01A2 |
| Project ID | NIH-10861386 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with mobility impairments who require assistance with transfers and their caregivers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are fully independent and do not require assistance with transfers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing and evaluating a new powered personal transfer system designed to assist caregivers and patients during transfers between beds, chairs, and toilets. The project aims to address the high risk of injury associated with manual lifting and repositioning techniques, which are common in caregiving. By creating a more efficient and user-friendly device, the research seeks to enhance safety and comfort for both caregivers and patients. The approach includes gathering feedback from users and testing the device in real-world settings to ensure it meets the needs of those with mobility impairments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of injury for caregivers and improve the quality of life for patients with mobility challenges.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that mechanical transfer assist devices can effectively reduce caregiver injuries, indicating a promising avenue for further innovation in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Veterans Health Administration
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duvall, Jonathan — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Duvall, Jonathan
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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.