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Consumers and health professionals are advised that Invacare Australia, in consultation with the TGA, is undertaking a recall for product correction for the Invacare Birdie Lifter series of hoists.
Invacare Birdie Lifters are hoisting aids for elderly or disabled patients that enable sitting and horizontal transfers. They can be used in health facilities or in patients' homes.
The products affected by this recall for product correction are:
- Lifter Birdie (180KG-EL-JC)
- Lifter Birdie 170KG EL
- Lifter Birdie CMPT (150-ML-JC)
- Lifter Birdie Compact 150KG ML
- Lifter Birdie MAN (170KG-ML-JC)
It has been identified that the D-clip that connects the actuator to the lifter's arm and is assembled by the user can become damaged in certain circumstances when not assembled correctly. Specifically, if the D-clip is placed backwards and pointing down towards the actuator, it can become damaged during use and the lifter's arm can fall down, potentially injuring the patient and/or other users. Also, if the D-clip becomes damaged, the quick release pin may not detach immediately from the actuator.
There have been no reports of this problem in Australia. However, as a precautionary action, the instructions for use for these products are being updated to clearly communicate the correct way to assemble the D-clip and quick release pin (see image below).
Information for consumers
Invacare Australia is writing to all dealers and aged care and other facilities that supply or use affected Invacare Birdie Lifters hoists regarding this issue and to provide the updated instructions for use. Dealers will contact individual users to pass on this information.
If you or someone you provide care for uses an Invacare Birdie Lifters hoist, be aware of this issue. Check the D-clip on your hoist for apparent damage and to ensure it has been installed in the correct way (see image above).
If the D-clip is damaged or broken, Invacare Australia will replace it.
If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, contact the retailer from whom you purchased your hoist. Alternatively, you can contact Invacare Australia on 1800 460 460 or email recalls@invacare.com.au.
Information for health professionals and facilities
If you treat a patient who uses an Invacare Birdie Lifters hoist or use these devices in your health facility, be aware of this issue.
Invacare Australia is writing to all dealers and aged care and other facilities that supply or use affected Invacare Birdie Lifters hoists regarding this issue and to provide the updated instructions for use.
If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, contact Invacare Australia on 1800 460 460 or email recalls@invacare.com.au.
Reporting problems
Consumers and health professionals are encouraged to report problems with medical devices. Your report will contribute to the TGA's monitoring of these products. For more information, see the TGA Incident Reporting and Investigation Scheme (IRIS).
The TGA cannot give advice about an individual's medical condition. You are strongly encouraged to talk with a health professional if you are concerned about a possible adverse event associated with a medical device.