Safe Patient Handling

Keeping the Caregiver and Patient Safe during Patient Handling

Of primary concern are back injuries and shoulder strains, which can both, be severely debilitating. The nursing profession has been shown to be one of the most at risk occupation for low back pain. The primary cause for MSDs is patient handling tasks such as lifting, transferring, and repositioning of patients. Physical Force required to perform the transfer or to maintain control of equipment and tools. Performing the frequent repetition of performing transfers. And the awkward positions they put themselves in while transferring patients.

Implementing Proper Lifting and Repositioning Techniques and Methods

The implementation of proper lifting and repositioning methods may achieve considerable success in reducing work-related injuries and associated workers’ compensation costs. In addition, it may lead to more benefits, including reduced staff turnover, training and administrative costs, reduced absenteeism, increased productivity and improved employee morale.

Using Adequate Transfer Equipment and Tools

Having no assistance available, Inadequate equipment, Inadequate footwear and clothing, and Lack of knowledge or training can contribute major risks to the overall patient transfer challenge for the caregiver.

Providing the Proper Training of No Lift Transfer Techniques

Safe patient handling is talked about a lot in the nursing circles. It refers to programs, policies and equipment that enable nurses to transfer patients without causing strain or injury to either party. You could break the transfer process down to mechanical and leverage transfers. Neither safe patient handling method allows for lifting of the patient. But few nurses let alone home care people really understand the leverage techniques required to make a transfer safe and simple.