The Patslide is a widely used patient transfer board that helps move people safely from one surface to another like from a bed to a trolley. Its rigid, low-friction surface allows smooth transfers with minimal lifting, helping carers reduce strain and improve safety during manual handling.

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Why is it called a Patslide?

The name “Patslide” comes from the original product branding, short for Patient Slide. Over time, it’s become a common term among healthcare professionals for flat, rigid boards used in lateral patient transfers.

How Does a Patslide Work?

The Patslide is placed under a draw sheet or transfer sheet beneath the patient. It acts as a bridge between two surfaces of similar height, like a bed and a trolley. With two carers, the patient is gently slid across the board without lifting.

How the Patslide Improves Safety for Carers

Moving a patient from a bed to a trolley or from one surface to another can be hard for both the patient and the nurse. The Patslide makes this easier, safer, and more comfortable for everyone.

Protects Nurses and Carers from Injury

Lightweight but Strong: Because the Patslide is easy to carry and place, nurses don’t have to lift heavy parts or strain their backs.
Smooth Surface: It allows the patient to slide across easily, so the carer doesn’t need to push or pull hard.
Easy to Position: It can be quickly placed between surfaces like a bed and a chair, which means less awkward movement for staff.

By using the Patslide, nurses can move patients without hurting themselves, especially when transfers happen many times a day.

How the Pat Slide Improves Comfort for Patients

Keeps Patients Comfortable and Calm

Reduces Distress: Patients don’t feel like they’re being dragged or lifted, which can be scary or painful.
Quick and Smooth Transfers: The smooth surface helps patients glide gently from one spot to another.
No Sudden Shocks: Since it doesn’t build up static electricity, the patient won’t get any surprise zaps, which can be uncomfortable or alarming.
Supportive and Stable: The board stays firm during the move, making patients feel secure and less anxious.

Because of these features, the Patslide helps make transfers feel safe, simple, and gentle, so patients feel cared for and nurses stay protected.

How the Patslide Moves Patients in 3 Easy Steps

The Patslide helps move a patient from a bed to a trolley (a rolling bed) safely and comfortably. Here's how it works in three simple steps:

Step 1: Get Ready to Slide

A nurse loosens the sheet underneath the patient.
The trolley is rolled next to the bed so it's touching the side.
One nurse gently tilts the patient a little to one side.
Another nurse slides the Patslide under the patient, then lowers it back down.

Now the Patslide is under the patient, ready to help them move smoothly.

Step 2: Slide the Patient Across

The Patslide now forms a bridge between the bed and the trolley.
The sheet under the patient helps them glide across the slide.
One nurse gently pulls the sheet toward the trolley, while the other helps lift slightly.
The patient moves smoothly and comfortably to the middle of the trolley.

This step makes the move feel gentle and easy, no heavy lifting or dragging!

Step 3: Remove the Patslide

Once the patient is safely on the trolley, the nurse grabs the handle on the Patslide.
The Patslide is slid out from underneath the patient.
The move is complete, and the patient feels calm and comfortable.

Using the Patslide in this way keeps the patient safe and relaxed, and it helps nurses avoid back injuries. The whole process is quick, smooth, and much easier than lifting by hand.

Why the Pat Slide Is a Safe and Smart Choice

Safe and Simple to Use

The Patslide helps move people safely from one surface to another, and it’s easy for carers or nurses to use.

Doesn’t Build Up Static Electricity

The Patslide is made from materials that don’t store static electricity. This means it won’t give you a small shock when you touch it, which can sometimes happen with plastic items. This makes it safer and more comfortable for both the user and the caregiver.

Lightweight but Strong

It’s easy to carry and move, but strong enough to support heavy use.

Works with X-rays

You can leave it under someone during an X-ray because it doesn’t block the image.

Can Handle Hard Use

It won’t break or crack easily, even if it’s used a lot or dropped.

Easy to Clean

You can wipe it down quickly, so it stays clean and safe for every use.

No Extra Maintenance Needed

There’s nothing you need to fix or take care of, it’s ready to use anytime.

Need Help Choosing the Right Patslide?

Our team is here to help you choose the right transfer aid for your needs. Whether you're supporting patients at home, in aged care, or in a clinical setting, we can guide you to the right solution.

Contact our team today for expert advice and support - 1300 350 350

Reference List

Briggate Medical Company. (n.d.). Instructions: Patslide Patient Transfer. Patslide. Retrieved June 2, 2025, from https://www.patslide.com/?page_id=27