when moving a patient what should you always avoid doing

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15-04-2025

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Moving a patient, whether in a hospital setting, at home, or during transport, requires careful attention to safety and comfort. Improper handling can lead to serious injury for both the patient and the caregiver. This article outlines crucial actions to avoid when moving a patient to ensure a safe and successful transfer.

Potential Hazards: Why Safe Patient Handling is Crucial

Patient handling injuries are a significant concern across healthcare settings. Improper lifting techniques can lead to:

• Back injuries: Strains, sprains, and even herniated discs are common among caregivers who lift or move patients incorrectly.
• Muscle strains and tears: Incorrect body mechanics put immense strain on muscles, leading to painful injuries.
• Patient injuries: Patients can experience pain, falls, and further injury if moved improperly.
• Joint problems: Repeated improper lifting can lead to long-term joint damage.

What to Absolutely Avoid When Moving a Patient

1. Lifting Without Proper Assistance: Never attempt to lift or move a patient alone unless they are exceptionally lightweight and cooperative. Always utilize assistive devices and/or get help from colleagues.

2. Twisting or Reaching: Avoid twisting your body during a lift. This places immense strain on your back. Maintain a straight back and use your legs, not your back, to lift. Similarly, avoid reaching for the patient; get close enough to minimize strain.

3. Lifting with Bent Knees and Back: Improper body mechanics, such as bending at the waist with straight legs, are a recipe for injury. Always bend your knees, keeping your back straight, to maintain a stable center of gravity.

4. Lifting Beyond Your Physical Capacity: Be realistic about your capabilities. If a patient is too heavy to lift safely, utilize a mechanical lift or get additional assistance. Attempting to move someone beyond your strength is dangerous and can result in injury for both you and the patient.

5. Ignoring Patient Feedback: Always communicate with the patient. Ask about their comfort level and pain levels. Adjust your technique based on their feedback. Ignoring their signals can lead to unnecessary pain or injury.

6. Failing to Use Proper Equipment: Mechanical lifts, slide boards, and other assistive devices are available to reduce strain on caregivers. Never hesitate to use the appropriate equipment for the situation. Improper use of equipment should also be avoided. Consult instructions thoroughly and seek training if necessary.

7. Neglecting Environmental Factors: Ensure the area is free of obstacles before initiating a transfer. Clear pathways and ensure proper lighting to prevent slips, trips, and falls.

8. Failing to Assess the Patient: Before moving any patient, assess their level of alertness, cooperation, and physical abilities. A patient with cognitive impairment will require a different approach than a fully alert and mobile one.

9. Neglecting to Lock Wheelchairs and Beds: Secure wheelchairs and beds with brakes before transferring a patient to prevent unexpected movement.

10. Rushing the Process: Take your time and perform each step carefully. Rushing leads to mistakes and increases the risk of injuries. Proper body mechanics and patient cooperation are essential to safe patient handling.

Utilizing Assistive Devices and Techniques

There are numerous resources available to help learn proper patient handling techniques:

• Mechanical Lifts: These devices drastically reduce the physical strain on caregivers.
• Slide Boards: These make transferring patients from beds to wheelchairs or stretchers smoother and safer.
• Gait Belts: These provide additional support and control when assisting patients with ambulation.
• Proper Lifting Techniques: Training courses and educational materials are available to teach correct body mechanics.

By consistently following these safety guidelines and utilizing available resources, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury for both yourself and the patient during transfers. Remember, patient safety is paramount. If unsure about a transfer, always seek assistance from a colleague or supervisor.