Safe Patient Handling

Lesson 1: Introduction and Objectives

Scope of musculoskeletal injuries in healthcare, statistics on back injuries and overexertion injuries among nurses and nursing assistants, consequences of patient handling injuries (chronic pain, disability, lost workdays, turnover), course objectives, and overview of safe patient handling principles

Lesson 2: Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders

Definition of ergonomics, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and spinal discs, common MSDs in healthcare, risk factors for MSDs, patient handling as primary cause of MSDs, cumulative trauma from repeated exposures, early warning signs of MSDs

Lesson 3: Planning a Patient Move

Importance of pre-move assessment, patient assessment factors, environmental assessment, available equipment, team coordination and communication, “no lift” policies and manual lift restrictions, when to use mechanical lifts vs. manual assistance

Lesson 4: Lifting and Transferring Techniques

VHA Safe Patient Handling and Mobility Algorithms, NAON algorithms for orthopaedic patients, vertical lifts using mechanical lifts, lateral transfers using slide boards and friction-reducing devices, repositioning in bed using slide sheets and draw sheets, ambulation assistance using gait belts and walkers, safe techniques for manual assistance when appropriate, team lifts and communication protocols, safe use of slings and positioning devices

Lesson 5: The Benefits of Safe Patient Handling

Benefits to healthcare workers, benefits to patients, organizational benefits, return on investment for safe patient handling programs, creating a culture of safety