Moving and handling: reducing risk through assessment.
Manual handling injuries can occur almost anywhere in a healthcare environment, and most staff perform a variety of moving and handling tasks every day. Heavy lifting, awkward posture, and previous or existing injury can increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. A healthcare professional's involvement in moving and handling is more widespread than it might appear, and their actions and understanding of techniques, legislation and guidelines have a direct effect on patient care. Every situation that involves the handling, or partial handling, of a person presents varying levels of risk to the patient and the carer. Maintaining a good level of patient mobility and independence is an essential part of care delivery and can reduce the risk of long-term physical and psychological effects. Delivery of care should focus on the individual's capacity, not their incapacity, to ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect.
The Health and Safety Group, London, England.
Gemma
G
Warren
D019567:Back Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D017770:Lifting / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D018570:Risk Assessment; D017751:Safety Management / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000379:methods; D014187:Transportation of Patients / Q000379:methods*; D006113:United Kingdom
biomechanics; ergonomics; handling aids; handling techniques; manual handling; moving and handling; musculoskeletal disorders; posture