Recommending a passive mobile hoist involves much more than selecting the right piece of equipment.
A strong assistive technology recommendation clearly explains how the participant's disability affects their ability to transfer, why their current transfer method is no longer appropriate, how the recommended equipment supports their goals, and why the selected transfer system is the most appropriate solution.
Whether you're preparing an NDIS assistive technology recommendation or supporting another funding application, the quality of your clinical reasoning is just as important as the equipment itself.
If you haven't yet completed an equipment trial, we recommend reading our guide:
A structured trial provides the clinical evidence that supports a well-reasoned recommendation.
What Information Should Be Included?
While every participant and funding application is different, there are several key areas clinicians should consider documenting when recommending a passive mobile hoist.
1. Functional Presentation
Begin by describing how the participant's disability affects their ability to transfer safely.
Rather than focusing solely on diagnosis, explain the functional impact. Consider documenting:
- Current mobility
- Weight-bearing ability
- Head and trunk control
- Balance
- Fatigue
- Pain
- Skin integrity
- Cognition
- Falls history
- Level of assistance required for transfers
Example
Mrs Smith has advanced Parkinson's disease resulting in reduced standing tolerance, poor trunk control and significant fatigue. She now requires the assistance of two caregivers to complete all transfers safely.
This helps explain why assistive technology is being considered.
2. Participant Goals
The recommended transfer system should support the participant's goals and everyday activities.
Examples may include:
- Remaining living at home
- Improving safety during transfers
- Reducing pain
- Maintaining dignity during personal care
- Participating in daily routines
- Supporting caregiver safety
- Maintaining comfort throughout transfers
Demonstrating how the equipment supports meaningful goals helps connect the recommendation to the participant's everyday life.
3. Current and Previous Transfer Methods
Describe how transfers are currently completed and explain why the existing approach no longer meets the participant's needs.
Include:
- Current equipment
- Previous equipment (if relevant)
- Number of caregivers required
- Current transfer technique
- Limitations of the existing system
Example
Transfers are currently completed using a standing hoist. However, progressive fatigue and declining standing tolerance mean the participant is unable to safely maintain an upright position throughout the transfer, increasing manual handling risks for caregivers.
4. Clinical Risks
Identify the risks associated with continuing the current transfer method. These may include:
- Falls
- Pain
- Skin injury
- Pressure injuries
- Fatigue
- Manual handling risks
- Carer musculoskeletal injuries
- Reduced participation
- Reduced dignity during personal care
The identified risks should relate directly to the participant's functional presentation and transfer requirements.
5. Equipment Trial Findings
Whenever possible, recommendations should be supported by an equipment trial. Document:
- Equipment trialled
- Transfers completed
- Participant feedback
- Caregiver feedback
- Performance within the home environment
- Any alternative equipment considered
- Why the selected transfer system performed best
A structured trial provides objective evidence that the recommended equipment is appropriate for the participant's functional needs and environment.
If you're planning a trial, our article What Does a Successful Hoist Trial Look Like? outlines the key areas to assess.
6. Clinical Reasoning
Rather than simply naming the recommended equipment, explain why it is the most appropriate option.
For example:
Why this hoist?
Consider documenting factors such as:
- Appropriate lifting range
- Manoeuvrability within the home
- Compatibility with the participant's environment
- Ability to complete required transfers
- Safe working load
- Compatibility with the recommended sling
Why this sling?
The sling should be justified separately. Explain why it was selected based on:
- Body shape
- Head and trunk support
- Skin integrity
- Comfort
- Ease of application
- Hygiene requirements
- Transfer goals
Good clinical reasoning demonstrates why the recommended transfer system is more appropriate than alternative options.
7. How Will the Recommended Transfer System Support the Participant?
Describe the expected functional benefits of the recommendation. Examples include:
- Safer transfers
- Reduced manual handling risks
- Improved comfort
- Reduced pain
- Greater dignity during personal care
- Increased participation in daily routines
- Improved caregiver safety
- Supporting the participant to continue living at home
Focus on the practical outcomes the participant and their support team are expected to experience.
8. Conclude with a Clear Clinical Summary
Finish with a concise statement that links together:
- Functional presentation
- Equipment trial findings
- Clinical reasoning
- Expected outcomes
Example
Due to progressive decline in mobility, reduced trunk control and increasing manual handling risks, a passive mobile hoist used with an appropriately fitted full body sling is considered the most appropriate transfer system to support safe daily transfers within the participant's home. The equipment trial demonstrated improved postural support, reduced caregiver effort and successful completion of all required transfers.
This type of summary explains why the recommendation has been made, rather than simply stating what equipment is required.
Clinical Tip
A strong assistive technology recommendation isn't about writing a longer report.
It's about clearly demonstrating the relationship between:
- The participant's functional presentation
- Their goals
- The challenges with the current transfer method
- The outcome of the equipment trial
- The clinical reasoning behind the recommended transfer system
To support clinicians preparing assistive technology recommendations, we've developed the Enable Clinical Resource CR002 – Hoist Assessment Evidence Checklist & Clinical Example.
Download the Assessment Tool in the Enable Lifecare Clinician App
Access via Menu > Resources > Assessment Tools > Hoist Assessment Evidence Checklist and Clinical Example
This practical resource includes:
- A checklist of key information to consider documenting during a hoist assessment.
- A worked clinical example showing how assessment findings can be translated into a clear recommendation.
- Clinical reasoning prompts to help justify equipment selection.
- Common documentation pitfalls to avoid.
Whether you're preparing an NDIS assistive technology recommendation or another equipment funding application, this resource is designed to help you document clear, evidence-informed clinical reasoning.
