How should you stabilize a mechanical lift before using it?

Stabilizing a mechanical lift is crucial for ensuring the safety of both the patient and the caregiver during transfers. Fully opening the lift legs provides a wider base of support, which enhances stability and reduces the risk of the lift tipping over. This is especially important when lifting a patient, as a fully opened positioning ensures the lift can evenly distribute the weight and maintain balance throughout the process.

While other actions, such as ensuring the lift is upright and using safety straps, are essential considerations during patient transfers, they do not directly address the stabilization of the lift itself prior to use. Proper stabilization by opening the legs fully is the first step in creating a safe environment for both the patient being lifted and the healthcare staff operating the lift.