A stairlift is an assistive device that helps a person with disabilities climb a flight of stairs. Its use can result in injuries that can be serious.
A stairlift consists of:
(1) a rail system along one side of staircase
(2) a seat that allows the person to sit
(3) motor to move the seat along the rail system
(4) safety features
People at risk for injury associated with a stairlift:
(1) person who requires the stairlift
(2) children who may play with the device
(3) other adults using the staircase
Risk factors for injury:
(1) intoxication
(2) fooling around
(3) failing to observe safety measures
(4) age > 70 years
(5) greater disability
(6) syncope
(7) difficulty getting off
Mechanisms of injuries:
(1) falls, especially when getting off and including falling down the stairs
(2) entrapment
Types of injuries:
(1) fracture of a long bone
(2) head injury
(3) hand injury
(4) thoracic injury
(5) spinal injury
(6) abdomen or pelvis
