AirPal: much more than a patient lateral transfer device
The AirPal® patient transfer system surrounds the patient with a gentle, supportive cushion of air – an almost cradling sensation created as airflow moves through the underside of the transfer mattress, gently lifting them away from the surface.
This invisible force lightens the load of care, allowing caregivers to reposition patients safely, comfortably, and efficiently, while reducing the physical strain that comes with manual handling.
Lateral Transfer using AirPal
AirPal is typically used in lateral transfers, as the physical effort for caregivers is reduced¹. With AirPal in place, it can facilitate other activities such as: changing bed linen, applying an imaging cassette, repositioning patients in bed and more. And, because AirPal can be left under the patient, this saves time if another transfer or repositioning is necessary².
Let’s start by showing a video on how to apply and remove AirPal under a patient.
Applying and removing AirPal
AirPal can be positioned under the patient using a rolling technique. Gently pushing AirPal from the underside can help to easily position it underneath the patient and unravelling it from the other side can help to reduce risk of friction against the patient’s skin. Tucking AirPal mattress underneath the patient from one side makes it easier to remove for the caregiver.
Turning the patient for pressure offloading
With AirPal in place, the patient can be turned to the side for pressure offloading to help reduce the risk of pressure injury. A brief inflation sequence can help with placing wedges to position the patient in a comfortable side lying position once the AirPal mattress has been deflated.
Repositioning up in bed
AirPal can assist with moving patients up the bed, reducing the risk of shear and friction against the patient’s skin.
An evaluation of 6 different lateral patient transfer systems to determine their effect on caregiver ergonomics showed clear evidence that the use of air-assisted lateral transfer systems such as AirPal significantly reduces the physiologic and biomechanical demands of the task¹. AirPal was perceived to require significantly less exertion than the other methods tested. It received the highest (best) rating for performance and the highest (best) rating forcomfort¹.
Changing bed linen
Removing bed linen underneath the inflated AirPal mattress can make the task easier for caregivers, without the need to roll the patient. The bed sheet slides out easily between the bed surface and AirPal, reducing risk of friction and shear on the patient’s skin with less effort for the caregiver.
Applying bed linen underneath the inflated AirPal mattress can make the task easier for caregivers, without the need to roll the patient. The bed sheet slides out easily between the bed surface and AirPal, reducing risk of friction and shear on the patient’s skin with less effort for the caregiver.
Applying an imaging cassette
AirPal is radiolucent and MRI compatible². Applying an imaging cassette can be made easier by simply inserting it under the inflated AirPal.
A new generation air supply
The latest updates to the AirPal system introduce an upgraded air supply with truly variable airflow, improving both caregiver control during transfers as well as patient comfort and dignity.
Additonally, a more flexible, extendable hose enables efficient, smooth transfers without disruption, while enhanced stability features keep the unit securely in place.
Smooth, contoured surfaces also make cleaning quicker and more effective, supporting infection prevention without adding to workload.
Together, these updates help to create a calmer, more controlled transfer experience for both patient and caregiver – reinforcing AirPal’s role as more than just a lateral transfer device, but a complete patient handling solution.
Click here to download the Whitepaper “An evaluation of lateral patient transfer systems; caregiver ergonomics” by Kevin Costello, Certified Professional Ergonomist, President, United States Ergonomics.
Discover the benefits of AirPal and see it in action with a personalized demonstration from an Arjorepresentative. Click below to book a demonstration.
For further guidance on the use of AirPal, please refer to the relevant Instructions for Use manual.
References
- Costello, K. An evaluation of lateral patient transfer devices; caregiver ergonomics, 2021.
- Arjo product performance testing – AirPal Air-Assisted Lateral Patient Transfer device, 2021.
