Safe Patient Handling & No Lift Policy: Reducing The Incidence Of Work-Related Injuries Among Nursing Staff

Author

Marissa N. Scanlon, University of San FranciscoFollow

Date of Graduation

Fall 12-12-2014

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

First Advisor

Danijela Pavlic

Second Advisor

Joan Mersch

Abstract

Background: Patient handling is a major risk factor for work-related injuries among nurses. Inadequate and inappropriate safe patient handling practices contribute to increased work-related injuries, lost/restricted work days, and hospital costs.

Purpose: The focus of this study was to increase the use of mechanical lift equipment and Lift Team to reduce the incidence of work-related injuries among nursing staff involved in patient handling activities on the Medical-Cardiac IICU.

Methodology: The theoretical framework employed for this project was Lippitt’s change theory. Pre-and post-survey self-report evaluations were conducted prior to and following the implementation of the Bedside Mobility Assessment Tool (BMAT) and unit specific Equipment Options Tool to measure the effectiveness of the intervention.

Results: A comparison of the pre- and post- survey RN results indicated that the greatest percent change (>10%) increase included: understanding that injuries can be avoided with proper lifting and transferring of patients (18.3%), utilization of patient lifting and transferring devices whenever possible (14.6%), understanding how to select appropriate lifting equipment based on patient assessment (18.3%), understanding how to utilize patient lifting and transferring devices (11.9%), and belief that coordinating with the Lift Team to schedule timelines for Safe Patient Lifts would be helpful for staff (40.5%).

Conclusion: The BMAT and unit specific Equipment Options Tool increased the use of mechanical lift equipment among nursing staff, and thus decreased the risk of work-related injuries. Future evaluation will indicate an increased utilization of lift equipment and team, and a sustained decrease in reported injuries, number of lost/restricted work days, and hospital costs related to patient handling activities.

Recommended Citation

Scanlon, Marissa N., "Safe Patient Handling & No Lift Policy: Reducing The Incidence Of Work-Related Injuries Among Nursing Staff" (2014). Master's Projects and Capstones. 78.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/78