LAKEPORT, Calif. – Falls are on the rise. Each year, millions of Americans experience a fall that leads to serious harm, such as a broken bone or head injury, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Hospitalized patients are especially at risk for falls, due to new medication, being in an unfamiliar environment, or post-surgery conditions.

On Wednesday, Sutter Lakeside Hospital started construction to install mechanical ceiling lifts in its 18 medical surgical inpatient rooms.

Ceiling lifts have slings connected to an electric track mounted on the ceiling and help patients move safely, which reduces the risk of injury due to a fall.

The Intensive Care Unit has used ceiling lifts in its four rooms for the last two years.

“The lifts can hold up to 500 pounds,” said Pauline Orr, RN, Intensive Care Unit nurse manager. “The lifts are crucial in providing the best care for patients who are dependent on our staff for movement, like stroke patients. Getting patients moving earlier reduces the risk of complications because the earlier a patient moves, the stronger they are. Earlier movement means healthier patients.”

The lifts also reduce the risk of health care workers injuring themselves, according to the Association of Canadian Ergonomists.

“Because of the lifts, we’ve seen an improvement in job satisfaction among nurses,” said Orr. “The lifts are convenient because the equipment is available any time it’s needed and does all of the heavy lifting.”

Nurses regularly move patients to prevent bed sores, improve circulation, and reduce the number of falls.

The installation of ceiling lifts is the latest initiative to improve patient experience. Sutter Lakeside Hospital also uses special lifts to help at-risk patients in and out of vehicles, as well as standing aids that can act as a wheelchair or walker.

“Updating our inpatient rooms is a priority because of its impact on both our patients and staff,” said Siri Nelson, chief administrative officer, Sutter Lakeside Hospital. “Equipping our nurses with the latest equipment translates to excellent care for our patients.”

The refurbished rooms will also include updated bathrooms, new floors, a fresh coat of paint and new blinds.

To learn more about Sutter Lakeside, or schedule a tour, please visit www.sutterlakeside.org/ or call 707-262-5121.