August 8, 2025 | Terry Smith

A complete comparison of the Vendlet and TurnAid Patient Turning Systems

Repositioning and turning in-bed clients is one of the most physically demanding care tasks, especially in the community where staffing and space are limited. Patient turning systems like the Vendlet and TurnAid enable single-handed care, promote dignity and safety, and protect caregivers from musculoskeletal injury.

But you may be wondering, what’s the difference between the two systems?

On the surface, the TurnAid and Vendlet systems both achieve the same goal, which is easy repositioning and turning of patients, but there are a few differences between the systems that should be considered. 

The TurnAid Patient Turning System

The Vendlet Patient Turning System

 

Key specs comparison table

Feature

Vendlet Turning System

TurnAid System

Safe Working Load 200 kg (V5S) or 400kg (Bari) 350 kg
No. of models 2 1
Control options Hand control Hand control & foot control
Side rail operation Motorised Manual (lift/lower)
Turning motion Motorised Motorised
Adjustable speed? Yes Yes
Bed compatibility Most community profiling beds Most community profiling beds
Compatible with pressure care mattresses? Yes Yes
Installation complexity Moderate Straightforward
Support & training Available via Felgains Available via Felgains

 

In-depth comparison – what are the main differences?

1. Safe working load

The TurnAid system has a safe working load of 350 kg and is designed to support the vast majority of users needing a turning system.

The Vendlet system comes in two models and requires you to choose between the V5S (200 kg) and Bari (400 kg) systems, which may increase complexity for equipment services and logistics.

2. Controls and ergonomics

Vendlet systems use a standard hand-held remote with speed control, allowing gentle and gradual turns while leaving one hand free to assist with turning.

TurnAid also has a speed-adjustable hand control, but adds an optional foot control, freeing both hands to assist with turning and with tasks such as dressing changes, hygiene, or sling application.

3. Side rail operation

Vendlet’s side rails are electrically operated, which is useful but adds another motor that could fail or require servicing in the community. 

TurnAid features manually operated side rails, reducing the number of electronic moving parts. This is valuable in community settings where engineers aren’t always immediately available. However, some carers may find the Vendlet’s electrically operated side rails more user-friendly. 

4. Vendlet vs TurnAid: Cost

Due to its simpler nature and fewer electronic motors, the TurnAid is more cost-effective when compared with the Vendlet.

This is especially true if comparing the TurnAid to the Vendlet Bari system, where the cost savings are several thousand pounds. The ongoing costs are also likely to be lower, due to the lower service and maintenance costs that come with fewer electronic components. 

This is beneficial for you as it makes the TurnAid easier to prescribe for your clients in the community. 

 

Vendlet vs TurnAid: Conclusion

Both Vendlet and TurnAid significantly reduce carer injury risk, enable single-handed care, and preserve client dignity. Your choice depends on:

  • The client’s weight and clinical profile
  • Carer requirements and capability
  • Budget and ongoing maintenance capacity

At Felgains, we are experienced in helping OTs prescribe patient turning systems for clients in the community and offer a free 2-week trial before purchase. Get in touch with our team to arrange.

 


 

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