On July 23, 2025, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a Class I recall—the most serious type—of the Q-Link 13 mobile lift component manufactured by Baxter Healthcare Corporation. The recall was issued due to a risk of improper attachment, which may lead to serious injury or death if the device is used.
The recalled Q-Link 13 component (product code 3156509) is used with several Baxter mobile lift models, including the Uno 102 EE, multiple Viking models, the LikoLight Mobile Lift, and LikoScale Adapter Kits and accessories. Baxter stated that the Q-Link 13 may allow for false latching of the Quick-Release Hook, potentially causing the sling bar or accessory to detach during use. The company has reported three serious injuries and one death related to this issue.
The affected lifts are commonly used in both home and healthcare settings to assist with patient transfers, including movement between beds, wheelchairs, toilets, and bathtubs, and for gait training. The Q-Link 13 is an optional accessory that connects sling bars to lifts and is also included in some LikoScale kits.
Baxter issued two recall letters to notify users—one on May 30, 2025, to healthcare facilities, and another on June 2, 2025, to home patients. The letters instruct users to immediately stop using the Q-Link 13 and to post the recall notice in areas where affected lifts are used or stored. Baxter will provide a replacement Q-Link Mobile component, designed to improve usability and reduce risks, once sufficient supply becomes available.
Consumers who purchased products through distributors or resellers should follow those companies’ specific instructions rather than responding via Baxter’s customer portal. For questions or to report problems, contact Baxter at corporate_product_complaints_round_lake@baxter.com or call 800-455-3720 and select option 2.
Healthcare professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.
For the full list of affected products and additional details, access the FDA recall notice here.
Compliance Perspective
Issue
The FDA has issued a Class I recall of the Q-Link 13 mobile lift component due to a risk of improper attachment, which may lead to serious injury or death from patient falls. The recalled component may falsely latch when used with various Baxter mobile lift models, creating a detachment hazard. Facilities must immediately discontinue use of the affected components and follow recall instructions. Under the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regulations and general safety standards, facilities are responsible for ensuring all assistive devices are safely maintained, properly assembled, and used in a manner that protects residents from avoidable harm. When recalls are issued, facilities must promptly identify affected equipment, remove it from service, and ensure replacements meet safety and compatibility standards.
Discussion Points
- Review and update policies and procedures related to lift equipment safety, including procurement, inspection, and replacement protocols. Ensure policies address how recalls are managed and documented, and confirm compatibility of all lift components used within the facility.
- Provide training to clinical, therapy, and maintenance staff on identifying and removing recalled components, proper attachment of lift accessories, and safe use of mobile lifts. Include education on how to respond to manufacturer recall notices and reporting safety concerns.
- Conduct audits of all mobile lifts and associated components to ensure no recalled Q-Link 13 parts remain in use. Verify that appropriate replacements have been installed and that equipment is correctly assembled and functioning as intended. Document findings and corrective actions.
*This news alert has been prepared by Med-Net Concepts, Inc. for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice.*