Assist movement Flashcards
Assist with movement
“Manual handling of people” refers to:
any activity that requires the use of force by a person to lift, hold, push, pull, shift, support, carry, lower, move, transfer or restrain another person.
(6) Principles for safe and injury-free manual handling:
Eliminate or reduce the amount of manual handling needed;
Reduce the amount of bending, forward reaching and twisting in all tasks;
Reduce worker fatigue;
Keep all equipment in good working order;
Keep the workplace environment safe;
Ensure that suitable training and education in manual handling is provided to all staff.
Three direct risk factors for manual handling (of people) injuries:
forceful exertion;
working postures (awkward, static);
repetition and duration.
If none of these direct risk factors are found to be associated with the people handling task or action, there is no risk and no need to assess the task or
action
Six contributing risk factors and modifying risk factors for manual handling injuries:
The contributing risk factors are: work area design; work environment; handling procedure. characteristics of the person being handled.
The modifying risk factors are:
characteristics of the worker;
work organisation.
It is the contributing and modifying risk factors that are controlled to manage the risk of injury
Before moving a client:
Use positive communication skills to confirm that you understand your supervisor’s instructions. Discuss any risks, or other concerns that you may have
When you receive the instructions, check the following:
Where the client is being moved from;
Where the client is being moved to;
Why the client is being moved;
The client care plan;
The surrounding environment;
The equipment required to move the client;
The number of staff needed to safely move the client.
Duty of Care responsibilities of employers:
Must provide a ‘safe’ work environment for employees and others;
Must provide suitable manual handling equipment or aids, e.g. slip sheets, walk belts, hoists etc;
Ensure there is sufficient staff to assist with client movement;
Provide education and training in manual handling policies and procedures.
Duty of Care responsibilities of employees:
Follow workplace manual handling policies;
Report any potential hazards;
Use the manual handling equipment provided i.e. slip sheets, walk belts, hoists etc;
Maintain current education and training;
If in doubt - don’t proceed until the issue has been clarified;
Seek advice when necessary;
Continually assess client abilities and report;
Report injuries immediately;
Enable clients to assist when possible;
Adhere to principles of body mechanics when performing any manual handling.
When being assisted to move, clients have the right to know that:
They will be treated with dignity and respect;
They should be comfortable in the care offered to them and they can refuse at any time;
Their concerns and suggestions will be listened to;
They will be acknowledged/included in decision-making;
Their personal information will not be shared without their consent;
All decisions regarding their care will be discussed with them first.
Open disclosure is:
a discussion that occurs after an incident.
If something goes wrong in the process of moving a client you must firstly ensure that the client is safe. Once the client is safe, you need to immediately inform your supervisor.
An open disclosure discussion may include the client, their carers, family and relatives. Open disclosure seeks to determine the cause of the incident and to put measures in place to prevent a recurrence of the incident.
Open disclosure should include:
An apology or expression of regret;
A factual explanation of what occurred, including actual consequences;
An opportunity for the affected patient to relate their experience;
A description of the steps taken to manage the event and prevent its recurrence.
Two main categories of equipment/aids used when assisting client movement:
Aids and devices to assist with manual handling
Mechanical lifting equipment
Aids and devices to assist with manual handling:
Used when the client is able to assist staff with their movement from one place to another. Includes: Slide/slip sheets Pat slide Transfer/slide board Monkey/trapeze ring Bed rails Walk/transfer belt Slings Stretchers/trolley Hoist Walking frame Crutches Wheelchair Shower chair Portable turntable
Mechanical lifting equipment:
Often used when the client is unable to assist with movement and is unable to weight-bear. An example would be raising a resident from a bed or from the floor. This equipment may also be used for a client whose weight makes it difficult for workers to lift them, even if they are able to partially assist with movement. Includes: Standing hoist and slings Standing hoists Mechanical hoists
Hoisting - what can go wrong?
■Selection of the wrong size sling – resulting in discomfort if the sling is too small and a risk of the person slipping through the sling if it is too large.*
■Selection of the wrong type of hoist or sling for the individual, or for the specific task – resulting in inadequate support and increased risk of falling from the sling. For example, access/toileting slings give a great degree of access but very little support and their use should therefore be restricted to toileting purposes, where appropriate.*
■Incompatibility of the hoist and sling – resulting in insecure attachment between the two. For example, incorrectly attaching a loop on a sling to a spreader bar designed for a clip attachment, or attaching a clip on a sling to a spreader bar designed to take a loop attachment. Follow the manufacturer’s advice and refer any concerns about sling/hoist design, supply, manufacturer’s instructions or compatibility claims to the MHRA, the regulator for medical devices (www.mhra.gov.uk).
■Failure of equipment due to poor maintenance, lack of inspection, inappropriate laundering processes or as a result of inadequate repair or modification.
■Leaving a vulnerable person unattended in a hoist, or in a position where they might be at risk of falling from the bed or chair.
■Hoist overturning when manoeuvring over difficult surfaces, transporting an individual over a long distance on a hoist, or not following manufacturer’s instructions for use or safe systems of work.
■Not using the safety harness/attachment (if the sling specified for the individual has one).
■Instability when moving someone on a mobile hoist – resulting in them striking objects. This is likely to cause injury, especially to those with vulnerable skin, and will increase the risk of a fall or overturn. In many cases, assessment will show that two handlers are required: one to operate the hoist; the other to help steady things and, where needed, support the person’s lower legs to keep them in a safe position when moving from one place to another. Importantly, they can also provide direct reassurance to the person being hoisted to maintain their co-operation and reduce the likelihood of them contributing to unstable movement.
Things to take into account when selecting equipment:
The physical ability of the client.
The ability of the client to understand.
The weight of the client.
The height of the client.
The environment.
The type of movement or transfer required.
Preparing the equipment:
Ensure that the equipment is clean and in correct working order. You must also be trained in how to use that piece of equipment.
You may also be required to adjust the equipment, to tailor it for each client.
(It is important to regularly assess and review each client, as their needs can change dramatically. AHP should do this)
To prepare the area in which and through which the move is going to take place:
Think about the layout of the furniture and any other obstacles in the area where the client is at present.
Move anything that could obstruct the clear path through which you intend to move the client. Remember that if you are moving the client to another room or area, you will also need to check that your intended path in that room or area is also clear.
Example: if taking a client to the shower, you will need to check that the shower is not currently in use, that any equipment (such as a shower chair) is available and that there is a clear walkway to move through.
If you are working with another staff member, be sure to work as a team in order to carry out the procedure safely and efficiently.
Explaining a procedure to the client:
Use effective communication skills:
Position yourself face to face with the client.
Introduce yourself to the client.
Be aware of your body language - communication without words.
Speak in a clear voice.
Use a calm tone of voice.
Explain the procedure that is about to take place.
Explain why the move is necessary.
Check the client’s understanding of what you told them by asking them if they know what you are about to do.
Use active listening skills when they respond to you:
show interest in what they are saying;
be patient - don’t interrupt as they speak;
paraphrase;
answer the client’s questions clearly and honestly.
Seeking consent:
Ensure that you have fully prepared the client for the move that is about to take place.
This involves explaining the procedure as clearly as possible and discussing why the move is necessary. If the client understands the necessity and the benefits of the move, they are more likely to consent to the procedure and to co-operate with health care workers.
Be aware that in some situations, clients may not be able to fully understand or cooperate with staff because of physical or cognitive challenges. These may include hearing or sight loss, or confusion. An inability to understand or cooperate may also be due to the client being in pain. It may be that the client may not understand your explanations because of their limited proficiency with the English language.
If a client refuses to give consent for your intervention you should refer the issue back to the supervisor.
Steps to follow when moving a client:
1) Confirm instructions (from the registered nurse or team leader). Consult the care plan regarding movement of the client. Check the identity of the client and any special needs
2) Explain the procedure to the client and enlist their consent and cooperation.
3) Wash your hands before carrying out the move.
4) Gather the equipment that you require for the move
5) Enlist the help of other staff if required.
6) Plan the procedure with the other staff.
7) Respect the client’s risk and dignity throughout the move. Close the door if appropriate; ensure that the client is covered with clothing etc.
8) Minimise risks to the client and workers by using safe manual handling techniques and team work.
9) Carry out the procedure in a safe and efficient manner (follow PsandPs).
10) Ensure comfort. On completion of the procedure, leave the client in a comfortable position.
11) Leave the area tidy.
12) Wash your hands after the move has been completed.
13) Clean equipment before storage.
14) Store equipment according to workplace policies.
The falling client:
If a client is falling it is important that workers do not put themselves at risk trying to ‘save’ the client.
Risk factors for falls:
Age (elderly);
Sensory-perception alteration;
Cognitive impairment (decreased LOC, confusion);
Poly-pharmacology;
Urinary incontinence;
Ability to communicate (language barriers);
Lack of safety awareness (height of bed, attachments and tubes);
Environmental factors (dim light, tripping hazards, uneven floors).
Fall prevention strategies and safety measures:
Look for fall risk factors in all patients. Identifying specific factors helps you implement specific preventive measures. Risk factors include age, weakness on one side, the use of a cane or walker, history of dizziness or lightheadedness, low blood pressure, and weakness.
Follow hospital guidelines for transfers.
Transfer guidelines provide a good baseline for further patient risk assessments.
Orient patient to surroundings.
Orient patients to bed, surroundings, location of bathroom and call bell, and tripping hazards in the surrounding environment.
Answer call bells promptly.
Long wait times may encourage unstable patients to ambulate independently.
Ensure basic elimination and personal needs are met.
Provide opportunities for patients to use the bathroom and to ask for water, pain medication, or a blanket.
Ensure patient has proper footwear and mobility aids.
Proper footwear prevents slips.
Communicate with your patients.
Let patients know when you will be back, and how you will help them ambulate
Keep bed in the lowest position for sedated, unconscious, or compromised patients.
This step prevents injury to patients.
Avoid using side rails when a patient is confused. Side rails may create a barrier that can be easily climbed and create a fall risk situation for confused patients.
Keep assistive devices and other commonly used items close by.
Allow patients to access assistive devices quickly and safely. Items such as the call bell, water, and Kleenex should be kept close by, to avoid any excessive reaching.
Lowering a Patient to the Floor:
A patient may fall while ambulating or being transferred from one surface to another. If a patient begins to fall from a standing position, do not attempt to stop the fall or catch the patient. Instead, control the fall by lowering the patient to the floor.
- If a patient starts to fall and you are close by, move behind the patient and take one step back.
Look and be attentive to cues if a patient is feeling dizzy or weak. - Support the patient around the waist or hip area, or grab the gait belt. Bend your leg and place it in between the patient’s legs.
Hand placement allows for a solid grip on the patient to guide the fall. - Slowly slide the patient down your leg, lowering yourself at the same time. Always protect the head first.
Lowering yourself with the patient prevents back injury and allows you to protect the patient’s head from hitting the floor or hard objects. - Once the patient is on the floor, assess the patient for injuries prior to moving.
Assesses patient’s ability, or need for additional help, to get off the floor. - Provide reassurance and seek assistance if required.
If required, stay with the patient and call out for help. - If patient is unable to get up off the floor, use a mechanical lift.
If patient still feels dizzy or weak, using a mechanical lift will prevent injury. - Complete an incident report according to agency policy.
An incident report helps identify and manage risks related to patient falls.
Safety considerations when dealing with falls:
There is always a potential fall risk during transfers and ambulation. Prevention is key.
If a patient begins to feel dizzy, have them sit on a chair or the floor to avoid a fall.
The head is the most important part of the body; always protect it as much as possible.
In the event of a fall, stay with the patient until help arrives.
After a fall, always assess a patient for injuries prior to moving them. If the patient remains weak or dizzy, do not attempt to ambulate them. Seek help.
Special considerations:
Use a falls risk assessment tool for all patients according to agency policy;
Younger patients may not be aware of the effects of medication and treatments leading to dizziness and orthostatic hypotension;
Inform patients and family members about the potential risks for falls in the hospital. If informed, people are more likely to call for assistance;
Always ensure call bell is in place. Many falls occur due to incontinence issues. The call bell allows patient and family to obtain assistance quickly;
If appropriate, educate patient about home maintenance and safety to prevent falls when returning home;
Fall prevention is interdisciplinary. Proper communication by the care team is required to prevent falls.
Repositioning of clients:
Regular repositioning is an important aspect of client care both for client comfort and for maintaining skin integrity.
The frequency of repositioning depends on the client’s condition and their ability to move or reposition themselves. It can be as often as second hourly.
Prolonged pressure on one area of the body may cause tissue damage. Some patients do not or can not reposition themselves. It is important that the care
providers in skilled nursing facilities are vigilant about turning and repositioning patients. Charting turning and repositioning care is very important.
Range of movement:
Clients who are immobile can suffer from limited movement in their joints. This limited movement is caused by the shortening and wasting of the tendons and ligaments which may lead to painful contracture.
Contracture:
a permanent shortening of the muscle or tendon, which can be disfiguring.
Emergency situations:
In life-threatening situations alternative strategies for moving clients should be utilised. However, these strategies should not put workers at risk.
Moving a client off the floor:
Do not hurry, and let them rest as often as they need to. If they get stuck at any time, make them comfortable and call the ambulance.
- Do NOT try to get the person up straight away!
- Calm the person and yourself. Get them to take deep slow breaths.
- Check for injuries. If they are badly injured, such as with a broken bone, they need to stay where they are. Make them as comfortable as possible and call an ambulance. Keep them warm while you wait for the ambulance.
- If they are not badly injured and feel they could get up, get two sturdy chairs and place one near the person’s head and one near their feet.
- It is important that the fallen person does the work. The helper should only guide lightly, helping the person to roll onto their side.
- Help the person to kneel. If they have sore knees, place a towel underneath as cushioning.
- Place one chair in front of the kneeling person.
- Ask the person to lean on the seat of the chair and bring one leg forward and put that foot on the floor.
- Place the second chair behind the person. Ask them to push up with their arms and legs and then sit back in the chair behind them. Guide them up and back into the seat, remembering not to lift them – they should be doing the work. Keep your back upright.
Let the person’s doctor know that they have had a fall.
Assisting client to sit or stand:
Your client must be weight bearing and wearing appropriate footwear before you assist them to stand.
When assisting a client to sit, make sure that the chair is a suitable height.
Pre‑manoeuvre
• Make sure clothing and footwear are appropriate for the task. Clothes should allow free movement and shoes should be non‑slip, supportive and stable
• Choose a lead carer: If more than one carer is involved when moving or handling a client, identify who should be the lead carer during the move by
giving instructions (e.g. ‘ready, steady, move’). The lead carer checks the client profile and coordinates the move
• If there is to be a change of position for the client, decide what it is before approaching them.
General practice
• Know your limits: Know your own capabilities and do not exceed them. Tell your manager if you need training in the technique to be used
• Seek advice: Talk to your manager or the moving and handling adviser if you need advice on the techniques and equipment you should be using
Preparation for a specific transfer of client:
Prior to moving a person, check the following aspects of the planned transfer:
• Check the client profile and carry out a pre‑movement risk assessment
• Plan the movement, including the order of specific tasks and who will carry out each task
• Get equipment ready: If equipment is to be used, ensure the equipment is available in good order with any required accessories in place and ready to use
• Prepare the environment: Position furniture, check that route and access ways are clear and that the destination is ready
• Prepare the client: Tell the client what will happen, gain their permission, and let them know what they are expected to do. Ensure that the client’s clothes and footwear are appropriate for the task, and that they have any aids they need
Communication among carers during the transfer:
Ensure that all instructions and commands used are consistent throughout the organisation. For example, use a clear command such as, ‘Ready, steady, stand’.
One reason for accidents is the lack of coordination between carers, and a lack of shared understanding within an organisation or facility of what terms or phrases mean when moving clients. Consistent, clear commands help to coordinate carers and minimise risks for these tasks. Carers making eye contact with each other is key to synchronising when more than one carer is involved. Ending the instruction with
a word that the client understands (‘ready, steady, stand’) will also facilitate client confidence in and understanding of what is about to happen.
Communication with clients:
Effective communication between carer and client is part of moving and handling.
Plan to inform clients and their families about your organisation’s moving and handling policy on admission.
A client may be resistant to being moved or handled in a particular way if they have not been consulted. Explain to the client what you are about to do, and ask their permission. If they have any concerns about things like safety, modesty issues and gender and
religious considerations, address them. Tell them of the benefits of the procedure to be used. As they are being moved, talk them through the steps and ask if they are okay. Ask them how they feel after the transfer, as client feedback is useful to verify that
they were comfortable with the move, or whether improvements could be made.
Some clients may resist being lifted using a sling and hoist, because they feel their dignity and safety may be compromised. Communicating the benefits for the client – particularly in safety and dignity – may allay those fears and increase client confidence.
Besides noting if a client has hearing difficulties or cognitive impairment, you may need to take into account language and accent issues. Often someone may say ‘Yes’ simply to give an answer, or ‘Yes’ meaning ‘I hear you but don’t understand or want
to do it that way’. One way to get agreement to or an understanding of what is to be done with the client is to ensure that what you say is simple language and not health jargon. Alternatively, demonstrate the move with another person reassuring the client and seeking their agreement at the same time. Also, speak slowly (not louder unless the client has a hearing problem) if the client has difficulty understanding your accent
Mobility aids and assisting people to walk:
Read and understand the manual handling care plan before you move your client;
Use the aids indicated on the care plan, e.g. walking frame;
Ensure the aids are in good repair and assist in replacement as indicated;
Ensure the client is wearing appropriate footwear;
Stop and refer the client to your supervisor if the safety of the client is compromised.
Chair weighing scales:
People who require assistance with their mobility may be unable to stand or balance upon floor scales without the support of an aid.
Chair weighing scales are designed to allow people to be weighed whilst in a seated position, simplifying the process and providing a higher measure of safety and comfort for the person being weighed.
When using Chair scales:
Ensure the brakes are applied and the scales have been calibrated to zero;
Put the footplates in an upright position and assist the client to sit in the chair;
Assist the client to put one foot on each footplate;
Elbows must be inside the chair and hands resting on the lap;
Record the weight;
Put the footplates up and ensure feet are firmly on the ground before assisting to stand.
Using hoists:
You will need to be trained in the use of each different type of hoist.
Some general principles that should be adhered to include:
Minimum of two workers required to use a hoist;
Use of hoist (and type) should be specified in care plan;
Never exceed safe working load of the hoist;
Ensure correct type and size of sling is used;
Ensure sufficient battery power is available;
Remain with client at all times when in hoist.
Important: Hoists are used to transfer clients. They are not used to transport clients.
Using a wheelchair:
There are a number of factors to consider when using a wheelchair in a safe manner. These factors help to protect both the client and the worker when using a wheelchair.
Assisting a client to transfer into the wheelchair:
Make sure that both of the brakes are ‘on’, and the front casters are swivelled forwards.
Fold up both footplates and swing them to the sides and out of the way.
If possible, get another person to hold the handles of the wheelchair so that it will not move. If this is not possible then stand behind the chair and hold the handles yourself.
Ask the client to stand then, with both hands on the front of the armrests, get them to lower him/herself onto the seat.
Swing the footrests to the front and fold down the footplates. If required, assist the client to place their feet on the footplates, with their heels well back.
Ensure that the client’s elbows are not sticking outside the wheelchair when going through doorways. Also ensure that their hands are on their laps and not hanging outside the chair where they can catch in the spokes.
Assisting a client in transferring out of a wheelchair:
Back the wheelchair so that the front casters swivel forwards.
Make sure that both the brakes are on.
Fold up both footplates and swing them to the sides, out of the way.
If possible, get another person to hold the handles of the wheelchair so that it will not move. If this is not possible then stand behind the chair and hold the handles yourself.
Ask the client to move forwards on the seat.
Ask the client to place both feet firmly on the ground, slightly apart and with one foot further back.
Ask the client to place both hands on the front of the armrests, then get them to lean forwards with their head and shoulders over their knees to give balance. From this position they should be able to push themselves to standing. Always encourage the client to take their time with each step of the procedure.
Assisting a client in transferring sideways from a wheelchair to another form of seating:
Place the wheelchair alongside, and at 45°, to the chair/toilet/bed/car that they wish to transfer to.
If possible back the wheelchair up slightly so that the front casters swivel forwards.
Ensure that both the brakes are on.
Fold up both footplates and swing them to the sides out of the way.
Remove the armrest on the side to which the client is transferring.
If possible, get another person to hold the handles of the wheelchair so that it will not move. If this is not possible then stand behind the chair and hold the handles yourself.
Ask the client to place one hand on the remaining armrest and the other palm down, on a stable area of the surface they are transferring to.
Ask the client to move forwards on the seat.
Ask the client to lean slightly forwards, push up and slide their bottom across to the other surface.
Using a trolley:
Trolleys are used to transfer clients who are unable to sit in a wheelchair.
Specific factors that should be considered when using a trolley include: Number of staff to move client; Transferring to and from trolley; Height of trolley; Brakes; Other equipment required on trolley.
When moving clients it will be often necessary to transfer the client. Examples of transfer may include:
Bed to chair
Trolley to bed
Chair to wheelchair
Wheelchair to toilet
Wheelchair to shower chairBody biomechanics is:
the study of mechanical movements and forces in the human body.
It is important to have an understanding of body biomechanics in order to practice safe manual handling and to avoid injury.
Two main reasons for back injuries occurring:
Poor posture over many years:
The abdominal and back muscles support the spine. This means that poor posture and muscle tone will contribute to injuries of the lower back if extra strain is placed on this area.
Bad working posture also causes increased risk of back injury.
Higher-risk positions/movements/conditions:
lifting; bending/reaching; poor posture; static work positions; jerking/twisting; inadequate rest; being overweight; loss of strength, flexibility and fitness.
Unacceptable practices:
Lifting/ manual handling techniques that pose a high risk to both the client and to the workers performing the move with the client
These include:
Cradle lift
Sling or strap lift
Sheet lift
Through arm lifts in the bed
Top and tail lift
Hook through the arm lift
Transferring with a client's arm around your neck
Soft tissue:
tissues that connect, support or surround other structures and organs of the body. Soft tissue includes muscles, tendons and ligaments
Muscle:
Muscles are made up of fibres that shorten and lengthen to allow movement of a joint.
Muscles are attached to bone by tendons.
Tendon:
Tendons are elastic connective tissues which join muscle to bone.
Ligament:
Ligaments are very strong bands of inelastic connective tissue that connect bone to bone.
4 types of ROM:
passive:
movement within unrestricted ROM for a segment that is produced entirely by an external force. little to no voluntary muscle contraction;
active-assisted:
active ROM with assistance provided by an outside source because the prime mover muscles need assistance to complete the motion;
active:
movement within unrestricted ROM for a segment thaat is produced by an active contraction of the muscles crossing that joint;
and
self-assisted:
patient is taught to use the stronger extremity to move the involved extremity through ranges of motion.
Before ROM exercises are commenced:
Clients should have a through physiotherapy assessment and the client care plan should reflect any restrictions.
Important considerations prior to moving a client:
The weight of the client;
How much mobility the client has;
Cognitive status and condition of the client i.e. are they confused, co-operative, or in pain;
Communication of the client - can they speak to you, do they understand what you are saying to them;
Whether the client needs pain relief medication prior to being moved, in order to make the move as comfortable as possible;
Any physical attributes of the client that could help or hinder the move, such as:
Paralysis of any limbs
Ability to assist – e.g. taking their own weight;
Assistance:make sure you have adequate workers to help with the move, especially if the client is unable to help in any way.
Ensure safety and comfort by using the following methods:
Assist on the disabled side;
No pulling, wrenching or overextending;
Avoid touching painful areas;
Use ‘non hook’ methods to assist with moving (e.g. transfer belt);
Enable client to do as much for themselves as possible to promote independence and self-esteem;
Observe principles of body mechanics;
Provide physical support to client’s spine;
Assist to maintain proper body alignment;
Obtain assistance when necessary;
Utilise protective pressure relief equipment;
Support and protect disabled limbs end to end;
Adjust bed height to working level;
Use side rails as necessary.
Encourage client to assist:
Wherever possible and where it is safe to do so.
Asking the client to assist supports client independence. However it is important that effective communication skills are used so that the client understands the procedure and that you work together to move safely.
Communication with client during movement:
When you are carrying out the movement procedure with the client, it is important that you talk to the client throughout the procedure.
Reassure the client that the move is going according to the plan you have discussed with them and with the other workers on the team. Work confidently and encourage the client to cooperate with you throughout the procedure.
Explain each step of the procedure as it is happening. Let the client know when the procedure is completed.
Position yourself face to face with the client if appropriate.
Speak in a clear voice.
Use a calm tone of voice.
Explain each step of the procedure as it is carried out.
Check the client’s understanding of what is happening.
Encourage the client to co-operate throughout.
Use active listening skills when the client speaks to you.
Answer the client’s questions clearly and honestly.
When the moving procedure is completed:
Clean the equipment. All equipment that is shared must be cleaned according to organisational policy after each and every use.
Return it to the correct storage place. This will ensure that the equipment is easily obtained by other workers for the next moving procedure.
Neglecting to return equipment can also be dangerous – wheelchairs, hoists and walking aids can create a trip hazard if they are left lying around.
The need for cleaning also includes manual handling equipment such as slip sheets, walk belts, wheel chairs, lifting hoists etc. Due to the risk of infection from micro-organisms which contaminate equipment and aids, we need to ensure that these items are cleaned before storage or ready for use again when a client needs moving.
Why we clean equipment after every use:
If a different client requires the use of the equipment/aid and the equipment has not been cleaned, then there is the potential for infection to be transferred via the equipment/ aid. This process is called ‘cross infection’.
In order to reduce the potential for cross infection occurring in the workplace, policies and procedures have been put in place to control the possibility of infection. This concept is referred to as Infection Control.
There are many areas of potential infection risk in the workplace and some of these include:
Clients;
Pests (flies, mosquitoes, cockroaches etc);
Micro-organisms (contaminate work surfaces, benches, trolleys, beds and other furniture, as well as the equipment which is used to care for clients);
Health care workers
Three common terms used when referring to cleaning in the health industry:
(and their meanings)
Sanitation is the use of an agent that reduces the number of bacterial contaminants to safe levels as judged by public health requirements.
Disinfection is the use of an agent to destroy pathogenic and other types of microorganisms. Whilst disinfection destroys most recognised pathogenic microorganisms it will not necessarily kill all microbial forms (e.g. bacterial spores).
Sterilisation is a process used to render a product free of all forms of viable microorganisms.
Cleaning of manual handling aids:
Equipment and movement aids may be cleaned by wiping them either with cleaning solution dissolved in water, or with alcohol-based wipes.
If clients have a low level of immunity they should have individual equipment that is kept in their room and not shared with other patients. This will minimise the risk of cross-infection.
Using chemicals and detergents for cleaning:
Neutral detergent and warm water should be used for general sanitation cleaning of equipment and surfaces such as furniture, benches, chairs etc.
Chemical disinfectants are not recommended for routine cleaning, but are used when there is a high risk of infection
Always follow the workplace policies and procedures for use of chemicals and detergents
Use equipment such as gloves and aprons when cleaning
Routine cleaning of equipment and work surfaces:
Clean equipment and work surfaces as soon as possible after use;
Use detergent and warm water for routine cleaning;
Always follow manufacturer’s instructions when using chemicals;
Allow equipment and surfaces to air dry after cleaning with detergents.
Reporting equipment faults:
When a piece of equipment or moving device is used and found to be faulty, it should be immediately withdrawn from use and taken out of the work area immediately. This will reduce the risk of a worker inadvertently using the equipment, which could compromise the safety of clients and workers. The fault should then be reported. The faulty equipment should remain withdrawn from use until the fault has been rectified.
Each workplace will have policies and procedures set down for how to go about reporting faulty equipment.
Some of the reporting methods may include:
Verbally reporting faulty equipment to the supervisor;
Preparing a written report;
Direct reporting to the maintenance department;
Securing a label or tag to the equipment item, indicating that the item is faulty and is awaiting repair.
