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Evaluation of interventions developed to prevent/reduce musculoskeletal injuries in health care workers caused by patient handling
1150-20 T 1997
(97FS-39)
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Issue: |
Comparison of different mechanical lifting devices |
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Agency: |
Trillium Lodge |
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Representative: |
Ms. Elaine Gamble |
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Funding: |
$7,170 |
Musculoskeletal injuries caused by patient handling have resulted in numerous time-loss claims to health care workers. Mechanical interventions have been recommended to the health care industry to prevent and reduce related injuries.
Trillium Lodge, a long term care facility, conducted a study to compare different mechanical lifting devices currently used in the facility based on staff acceptance, the reduction of physical work, and the impact on patients. The investigation shows that the overhead mounted ceiling lifts (WISPA) are the workers first choice. ERGO is the preferred floor lifting device. Since repositioning residents in bed is the number one cause of musculoskeletal injury, a full body repositioning sling is recommended to be placed under each resident who requires repositioning.
A combination of mechanical interventions, policies/procedures, and programs substantially decreased injuries, time lost and costs related to patient transfers in this long term care facility. The annual number of injuries related to resident handling deceased 71%, time lost by 84% and WCB assessments by 41%.