Education Center Topics Adult Rehabilitation Safe Patient Handling and Mobility SPHM

Education Center

Safe Patient Handling and Mobility (SPHM)

Topics

A man walks in a Rifton E-Pacer, with the assistance of two caretakers.
Article
Three Safe Patient Handling and Mobility (SPHM) Myths Debunked
Patient transfers are a routine part of all therapy interventions. These might involve assisting someone from a wheelchair to a mat table or parallel bars or helping a child into a gait trainer. However, these transfers put therapists and…
red Rifton E-Pacer, a lift and gait training device, on a white background
Article
Rifton E-Pacer Safe Patient Handling & Mobility Training Documents
The following documents have been compiled for providers, hospitals, and long-term care facilities to use in the implementation of safe patient handling and movement programs with the Rifton E-Pacer. E-Pacer Evaluation Form…
A young woman smiles as she is positioned for seat to seat transfer in the Rifton TRAM.
Article
TRAM Tip: Inverting Forearm Mounts for Larger Clients
The Rifton TRAM is a versatile transfer and mobility device that can  safely support people of varying abilities and sizes. To do this effectively it’s important to position the body support low enough on the trunk, but for…
A man smiles at his therapist while walking in the Rifton TRAM.
Article
Rifton TRAM FAQs
Who uses the TRAM? Note: The TRAM has been replaced by the E-Pacer (June 2025) The Rifton TRAM is a multi-purpose device used for sit-to-stand lifting, gait training, assisted transfers and toileting. The TRAM is used by children and…
tram walking saddle transfer video
Article
Using Slip Sheets to Position the TRAM Pelvic Support
Therapists are always looking for ways to accomplish patient transfers as simply and quickly as possible without excessive repositioning of the patient. Today we’re sharing a great hack from Jamie Haines, PT, DScPT, NCS at Central…
A therapist practices safe patient lifting by transferring a woman from a treatment table using the Rifton TRAM
Article
Safe Patient Handling Evidence-Based Practice
Safe patient handling is big. Some states have already passed legislation supporting this trend in healthcare and many hospitals and institutions are implementing “no lift” or “zero lift” programs with much success.…
A therapist uses a Tram as a patient transfer technique to safely transfer a young man from sit to stand.
Article
Patient Transfer and Lifting Guidelines Implications for Pediatric Physical Therapists
Techniques for lifting and transferring patients are among the most basic skills physical therapists learn. Many of us were taught that by use of appropriate body mechanics we could transfer patients safely and effectively without risk of…
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