Low back load produced by changing a diaper at various bed heights experienced by female care workers in a nursing home

Abstract

[Purpose] Muscle activities and subjective evaluations were compared while changing diapers at various bed heights to investigate working techniques and bed heights for reducing low back load. [Subjects] The subjects were 21 skilled caregivers. [Methods] Bed height was adjusted to the level at which the subjects usually changed diapers, their preferred level, and 45% of the subject's height. The activities of eight muscles and subjective evaluation were compared among the various heights. [Results] The bed height at which subjects usually changed diapers was 51.7 cm, the preferred bed height was 63.4 cm, and 45% of subjects'height was 71.0 cm, showing significant differences. Right erector spinae activities were significantly different among three heights, as were subjective evaluations. The diaper-changing fulcrum differed: it was set at the thighs and knees at the routine height; at the thighs, knees, and lower abdominal region at the preferred height; and at the thighs at 45% of the subject's height. [Conclusions] Skilled caregivers mastered adjustment of the diaper-changing fulcrum corresponding to the bed height. It was also suggested that the erector spinae muscle activity level and subjective low back load may not be consistent when 45% of the subject's height.