title: An ergonomic comparison between mechanical and manual patient transfer techniques.
abstract: Multiple studies have concluded that manual patient transfer and repositioning techniques are a significant cause of low back injuries. The objective of this study was to compare the low back stresses resulting from the use of two different mechanical patient transfer assist devices with the use of traditional manual transfer techniques. The mechanical transfer systems used were the Barton Patient Transfer System and a Sling-Suspension Lift similar to a "Hoyer Lift". The back compressive forces derived using the Michigan 3D Static Strength Model (Version 4.0) and electromyography (EMG) of the muscles of the low back were compared. This study found that the mechanical assist devices placed less stress on the low back and were more desirable to use than the traditional manual techniques. The Barton System was found to be, in general, less hazardous and more preferred than the Sling Suspension Lift.
authors.affiliation: University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84112-9208, USA.
authors.forename: Chris E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Silvia
authors.forename: Donald S
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Bloswick
authors.forename: Dean
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Lillquist
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Wallace
authors.forename: Michael S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Perkins
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D019567:Back Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D006804:Ergonomics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017770:Lifting; D008161:Lumbosacral Region; D008297:Male; D016272:Occupational Health; D014187:Transportation of Patients / Q000379:methods*; D014481:United States