Determining Comfort Recline Sling Fit:
Three points on the sling serve as landmarks in determining proper fit: (1) the darting in the hip region, (2) the
bottom border of the sling, and (3) the top border for slings without head support. The darting in the hip region
should line up with the client’s hips when he/she is in a side lying position with the hips and knees flexed. To find
the top border of the sling without head support draw an imaginary line between the shoulder straps.
Determining appropriate sling length:
With the client in side lying with hips and knees flexed, drape the sling over the client with the label facing out. The
darting should be in line with the client’s hips. With the darting in position, the bottom border of the sling should
fall low enough to provide support to the gluteal region and the thighs. If the bottom border does not extend far
enough, it can create added pressure to the thighs. If the bottom border extends too far, it can create added
pressure behind the knees.
With the darting in position, the top border should fall between the client’s shoulder (deltoid), and the top of the
ear. If the top border does not extend high enough, it can create added pressure to the upper back.
Determining appropriate sling width:
The Comfort Recline has a narrower fit than the Universal Sling. When the center of the sling body is in line with
the client’s spine, the sling should extend anywhere from between the lateral aspect of the shoulder and the
anterior crease of the shoulder (where the deltoid muscle and chest meet). When the client is in the sling, you
should not be able to have both sides of the sling meet to fully encircle the client. This would signal that the sling
is too big. However you should be able to come across the front of the client slightly, otherwise the sling will be
too small.
Determining appropriate leg band length:
The Comfort Recline does not have leg bands. It does have midline leg straps extending from a storage pouch
between the thighs. The leg straps are threaded through the midline leg straps prior to lifting to ensure
appropriate sling fit. Neither set of straps should come in contact with the client’s skin.
Comfort Recline Sling Application Instructions:
When the client is lying down
:
1. Assist the client to roll onto his or her side with hips and knees flexed– have him or her help as much as possible.
2. Position the sling underneath the client:
a. Lay the sling on the bed
b. Fold the sling in half lengthwise with the tag on the outside
c. Place the folded edge 2 inches away from the client’s spine and tuck the top layer under the client’s
back
d. Line the darting in the hip region up with the client’s flexed hip
e. Bottom edge should support the client’s gluteal region and thighs, and the top edge should be in line
with the client’s shoulder
e. Ask the client to roll onto his or her back
