Barriers and facilitators affecting the adoption of ceiling lift interventions in nursing homes

Abstract

Ceiling lifts have been implemented in skilled nursing facilities to reduce the physical demands associated with patient-handling activities. However, despite the apparent ergonomic advantages of using such interventions, multiple studies have reported the reluctance of health care professionals to use the provided ceiling lifts. This study investigated factors that affect the adoption of ceiling lift interventions and considered a process that involves individuals progressing through multiple stages of change that ultimately lead to an intervention's use. Eighteen participants from three nursing homes, who have had opportunity to use ceiling lifts, completed a survey and were interviewed afterwards. Four physically demanding tasks where ceiling lifts would benefit the healthcare provider were examined with regard to their adoption stages and the factors that affect their use. The findings show that for obviously physically demanding tasks, most participants fully adopt the use of a ceiling lift. However, when using a ceiling lift leads to a decrease in work efficiency or could result in adverse effects, a participant's tolerance of physical demands increases beyond recommended levels and results in the use of compromised lift methods.