Safe Patient Handling

By VeriScorePrep Team · 3 min

Healthcare workers have high rates of musculoskeletal injury from lifting. Use proper body mechanics: maintain a wide base of support, keep the load close to your center of gravity, bend at the knees (not the waist), and never twist while lifting — pivot with your feet.

Whenever possible, use mechanical aids: ceiling lifts, slide boards, transfer belts, and gait belts. Get help for dependent or bariatric patients; never lift alone what two people should move. Assess the patient's mobility status before every transfer and plan the move.