An appliance for working with patients, includes an essentially sheet-like basic structure and includes as a combination a layer (1) lying against the base, which slides well in one direction and poorly in another, a support layer (2) permitting lifting, and a moisture-absorbent layer (4), which is equipped with a protective layer (3) impermeable to moisture. It also includes handle parts (7) permitting gripping, on at least two sides.
