Emory healthcare’s safe patient handling program

Abstract

Nursing staff are ranked sixth for highest at-risk for musculoskeletal injuries. Nurses may manually lift up to 2.7 tons in 12 h. Patients are admitted to the hospital sicker and heavier creating a physical challenge for nursing staff. Emory Healthcare launched a Safe Patient Handling Study in 2007 with an ergonomic analysis. 24% of the hospital injuries and 41% of skilled care nursing facility injuries were due to repositioning and transporting patients. The workers’ compensation costs were up to $4 million yearly. Lift equipment trials were set up. Emory’s Safe Patient Handling Program was implemented in November 2009. A dedicated safe patient handling nurse oversaw training and lift equipment installation. Challenges included maintaining lift sheets and consistent equipment utilization. With nursing education and administrative support, there was a 12.5% cumulative reduction in injuries in 2014. Emory Healthcare is dedicated to keeping nursing staff safe and injury free.