John D. Lloyd, PhD, CPE
Board Certified Ergonomist
32824 Michigan Avenue
San Antonio, Florida 33576
Tel: 813-624-8986
Email: DrJohnLloyd@Tampabay.RR.com
Biodynamics of Back Injury- Manual Lifting and Loads
Abstract: Patient handling tasks are often performed under unfavorable conditions and at significant risk to nursing staff. Nursing staff have one of the highest incidences of work related musculoskeletal injuries of all occupations . Back injuries are frequent among patient caregivers, causing personal suffering, lost time, threats to patient safety, workers’ compensation expense, and staffing difficulties. Preventive interventions are critically needed to control the hazards and economic burdens associated with performing patient handling and movement tasks .
The four factors that most contribute to musculoskeletal injuries in nursing are: (1) caregiver, (2) load lifted (patient), (3) work environment, and (4) job tasks. Efforts to decrease risk of injury related to providing patient care have been largely unsuccessful over the past two decades. Those strategies most frequently cited include (a) education and training in body mechanics, (b) use of standard mechanical lifting aids/equipment, and (c) alterations in lifting techniques. Unfortunately, none of these strategies have been found to be successful in isolation.
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