Body Mechanics and Patient Transfer Flashcards

1
Q
  1. What are the most commonly injured body parts in healthcare?
A

Back/Spine

Shoulder

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

What is an Industrial Athlete?

A

Any worker who performs physically demanding work requiring his or her body to perform precise and/or repetitive skeletal movements, body positions, and manual tasks

Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, twisting

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What does a professional athlete and an industrial athlete have in common?

A
Skill 
Will
Coaching
Great Equipment
Physically Demanding Work
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

What is the difference between an elite athlete and an industrial athlete?

A

An elite athlete is limited with their time in the gym/field, periodization, and shorter careers.
The industrial athlete works long shift work hours, overtime, no periodization, and have longer careers.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

What are periodization principles?

A

Elite Athletes also adhere to periodization principles in which the amount and intensity of training/competition is adjusted throughout the year. This is done to increase performance and prevent injury. Professional athletes and their medical staff know that pushing your body constantly without periods of reduced intensity or rest will result in mechanical breakdown (INJURIES)

In contrast, our Industrial Athlete in Healthcare are potentially working 20+ years, and some closer to 30 or 40.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

What are ergonomic risk factors?

A
Awkward/Sustained Posture 
Forceful Exertions
Contact Stress
Repetition
Gripping
Vibration
These ergonomic risk factors are the building blocks of injury.
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

How does your body position affect the pressure on the spine?

A
  1. When you stand this is considered 100% pressure on the spine.
  2. When you are lying down this is considered the least amount of pressure on the spine.
  3. When you lean over the pressure on the spine & discs increases up to 275% depending on the exact position!
    See slide 12.
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What is the power position?

A

Pelvis is 1/2 flexed or tilted.
Buttocks out.
Knees and hips flexed.
Head up.
Results: Keeps the curves; keeps the work in the legs.
Provides a stable base of support, enables quick reaction with less distance to travel. Allows curve of spine to be in neutral position even when low to the ground. A young child uses this position naturally.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What is the power zone?

A

Between the chest and midthigh.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

What are the principles of good body mechanics?

A
  1. Load/arms close to body
  2. Hands between hips and shoulders
  3. Use legs to weight shift
  4. Avoid twisting the back
  5. Slow and controlled
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

What is the ideal work height?

A

This varies with the type of work being performed, i.e. whether it is light or heavy.

Precision work - 6” above elbow height to avoid excessive upper back and neck bending.
Light work - at elbow height.
Heavy work - 6” below elbow height to utilize lower body strength.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

What can you do to improve your work position in a healthcare setting?

A

Consider equipment placement and patient/bed placement.
Perform: Macro and micro changes – bed and patient. Raise/lower equipment to optimal working height.
Think: Easier for the patient to move than for you. Ok for them to be temporarily uncomfortable to avoid repetative strain injuries to HCW.
Use Tools such as Bolsters – for you and the patient’s comfort/access.
Note: Google says as a noun, a bolster is a long thick pillow placed under other pillows for support; as a verb it means to support, strengthen, or to prop up.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What is the effect of sustained positions? How do you counter-act effects of awkward and/or sustained positions?

A

At rest, the amount of blood and blood flow required is low compared to dynamic movement. But during a sustained force position our body needs lots of blood but blood flow is low as blood vessels are compressed and blood is not as effectively being pumped through the muscle. This mismatch between blood flow needed and actual blood
flow can lead to muscular fatigue and decreased efficiency much sooner than dynamic work. This increases the risk for injury.

Changing positions frequency is our best prevention.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What are some examples of sustained positioning in the healthcare setting?

A
During an ultrasound.
Lab work:
Microscopy
BSC or fume hood
Cell counters
Microtome work
Pipetting
Overhead lifting
Lab workbenches
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

What is the ergonomic issue with electronics? How can you avoid?

A

Tech neck - describes the injuries and pain from time spent looking down at devices. Estimated added stress on neck, ~ 60 lbs onto neck (4 bowling balls).
Avoid tech neck by keeping chin up and maintaining a neutral position. Do not change the position of your neck.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

How can you reduce the forces involved in moving equipment?

A

Slow and controlled movements will reduce the required exertion (forces) more than faster, jerky ones.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

What is contact stresses/pressures in ergonomics? What body areas are particularly vulnerable to this?

A
  1. Contract stress occurs when a force is concentrated on a small area of the body, which can pinch or compress the underlying nerves and tissues and restrict normal blood flow to that area.
  2. Examples:
    a) hard or sharp object comes in contact with the skin such as kneeling on hard ground,
    b) leaning against a bed rail or stretcher, c) resting forearms or wrists on the edge of a surface (e.g., computer work), or
    d) when ridges and hard edges on equipment dig into your hands.

The sides of the fingers, palms, wrists and forearms, elbows and knees are most susceptible because the nerves, tendons and blood vessels are close to the skin and underlying bones in those areas.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What is repetition and what affect does it have on the body? How do we prevent it? What can occur if we do not?

A
  1. Repetition entails performing the same motion or series of motions over and over
    again using the same muscle groups with little variation or chance of recovery time.
  2. The muscles begin to fatigue and the amount of force a person can exert and the capacity to do work will decrease.
  3. The task needs to be stopped for a
    period of time in order for the body to recover. Time needed for recovery depends on the task as well as the individual’s physical conditioning. If the break is too short, the body will not have recovered fully and the capacity to do work decreases more quickly.
    ** Variation in type of task & frequent breaks** help prevent repetition issues.
  4. Repetition can have a cumulative effect over time and result in repetitive
    strain injury (RSI), similar to a single incident of excessive force.
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What is an example of a repetitive task in the healthcare setting?

A

CPR

Microtome work in the lab.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

How does the type of grip used affect the force and risk of a musculoskeletal injury (MSI)? How is this an issue with patient handling?

A

Gripping
1. The type of grip used when handling patients will affect the force that can be generated and risk of MSI.
2. A power (cylindrical) grip, which uses the entire hand to produce force, provides the maximum gripping force that can be generated by the hand and requires
the least amount of effort.
3. A pinch (precision) grip, which only involves the fingertips (i.e., between thumb and finger(s)), can produce ~25% of the force of a power grip.
4. Because the human body does not possess any handles, it is difficult to find areas that would enable the use of a good grip, at least not without potentially injuring the patient.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

How does vibration in the workplace affect the body? Where may it be experienced in the workplace setting?

A

Vibration results in more intense upper body but affects the whole body. Vibration can increase the chances and/or impact of injury by about 25%

Example: Riding in an ambulance.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

What is the Hierarchy of Controls?

A

In order from most effective to least, they are:

  1. Elimination
  2. Engineering Controls
  3. Administrative Controls
  4. PPE
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

What are some examples of administrative controls?

A

Job Rotation
Rest Breaks
Work Practice Changes

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

What are some examples of PPE in the hospital?

A

Gloves, respirators, lead protection etc.

Proper footwear

Bolsters

SPH equipment

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Q

How do I become an industrial athlete?

A

Two main goals: prevent injury and increase performance.

Aerobic Conditioning
Flexibility & ROM
Muscular Strength
Muscular Endurance

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
26
Q

What are the benefits of aerobic conditioning?

A
  1. Increased heart/lung capacity & efficiency
  2. Increased blood and oxygen flow to muscles during sustained exercise
  3. Increased circulation in the body which promotes healing of muscles
  4. Increased endurance/decreased fatigue
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
27
Q

Why is it important to have and maintain flexibility?

A
  1. Range of motion possible around a specific joint(s)
  2. The ability to make longer or wider without tearing or breaking
  3. Short muscles = decreased ROM
    Mores susceptible to strain (exceed extensibility limits)

This is particularly important in awkward postures that cannot be altered.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
28
Q

What is the best way to increase flexibility? What are the two different types of stretching?

A
  1. Dynamic stretching is more effective prior to activity. Static Stretching is better suited to improving overall flexibility
  2. Dynamic stretching. Slow, controlled body movements with gradual increase through full ROM, speed, or both
  3. Static stretching: No movement; maintaining or holding a position
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
29
Q

What is the problem with static stretching?

A

Research has shown that static stretching prior to activity can be detrimental to performance. 5-30% reduction in strength & power production.
Does not necessarily lead to decreases in injury.
Although it does improve overall flexibility.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
30
Q

When do most injuries occur in the work place?

A

Most injuries occur in the first 2 hours of work. This emphasizes the importance of proper warm up and stretching.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
31
Q

What is the reason dynamic stretching is so important? What is the impact of age?

A
  1. When a person is not active the synovial fluid resembles a thick gel or paste. When the body begins moving, say to warm-up before exercise, then as the body temperature rises, the fluid begins to become less viscous.
  2. Increased risk of joint injury if synovial fluid has not take on the properties to better protect the joint.
  3. Best thing to do - make sure that warm-up begins gently and gradually heart rate and body temperature increase which, in turn, allows the muscles to receive greater blood flow which delivers oxygen to all parts of the body. This heightened state of activity will also affect the joints by warming and thinning the synovial fluid and allowing it to better protect the joints. 4. This is more important as we age. The body requires longer and longer time to warm-up.
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
32
Q

What is a neutral posture?

A
  1. The neutral posture or zone is a region of little or no resistance to movement in the middle of a joint’s range of motion. The joints or body segments are not bent or twisted significantly in any direction and the natural curves of the spine are maintained so that the least amount of energy is required to maintain it.
  2. This position places the least amount of stress/strain on soft tissues and the muscles are in their strongest position to
    develop the maximum amount of force most efficiently.
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
33
Q

What is an awkward posture?

A

An awkward posture is one that deviates significantly from the neutral position or zone (i.e., extreme joint ranges). The muscles, tendons, nerves and bones are stretched, shortened, and/or compressed and are not in an optimal position for force
development.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
34
Q

What can you do instead of pulling a load with the arms/shoulders/back?

A

Stabilize the arms and shoulders with elbows tucked in to the sides

Bend the knees and hips

Place weight onto foot closed to patient/item to be moved

Shift the weight onto the foot closest to the destination.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
35
Q

What are the difference between NIOSH guidelines for manual material handling and safe patient handling?

A

NIOSH Guidelines:
Manual Material Handling – 51 lbs

Safe Patient Handling – 35 lbs

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
36
Q

Why are safe patient handling weights lower than manual weights?

A

Humans do not have handles (love handles don’t count)
Weight is not distributed evenly
Can move unpredictably

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
37
Q

What percentage does a leg or an arm weight approximately with respect to total body weight?

A
  1. A leg weighs about 16% of total body weight. When a patient weighs 18-41 kgs (40-90 lbs), some restrictions begin
    Patient >95 kg (209 lbs) has legs weighing over recommended limit of 16 kgs (35 lbs)
  2. An arm weighs about 5% of total body weight. When a patient weighs >64 kgs (140 lbs) some restrictions begin
    A patient >199kgs (438 lbs) has arms weighing over the recommended limit.
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
38
Q

What are the three elements of safe patient handling?

A

The triangle theory supports equal importance placed upon:

  1. Safety for the worker
  2. Safety for the patient
  3. Continuing to foster independence for the patient
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
39
Q

Where should patient handling tasks be done (in terms of HCW body level)?

A

Patient handling tasks should take place between hip and chest height
Heavy tasks at hip level
Closer tasks at chest
Adjust the bed accordingly
Bariatric patients may require that the bed be lowered to reduce reaching over the chest wall.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
40
Q

What are some improper patient handling practices?

A
  1. Handling patients without proper assessment
  2. Not using appropriate equipment
  3. Awkward positions:
    - Twisting
    - Bending/Stooping
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
41
Q

What are the goals of a patient mobility assessment?

A
Determine patient capability and consider safety.
The three elements are:
1. Transfer technique required.
2. Number of HCWs required.
3. Equipment required.
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
42
Q

When is a patient mobility assessment performed and by whom?

A
  1. On admission, including baseline and current status (Nurse)
  2. Whenever a team member recognizes a change in status (Nurse) Improve or worsen
  3. Screen before every transfer (Everyone)
    ACES
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
43
Q

What do you do if you are not sure of patient’s capabilities or doubt them?

A

HCWs can always choose a more conservative method of transfer.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
44
Q

What do you need to be aware of in an acute setting in regards to patient capabilities?

A

In an acute setting, a patient’s condition/status can change rapidly.

45
Q

What are some special considerations that need to be taken into account in terms of the method of transfer?

A
Bed rest
Abdominal wounds
Contractures
Weight bearing restrictions
Pain issues
Drains or tubes that may interfere with SPH equipment
Uncooperative patients
46
Q

What are the three tips for bariatric transfers?

A
  1. Consult Rehab for advice on transfer
  2. Ensure equipment meets weight capacity
  3. Communicate during assessment/ transfer.
    - With patient
    - Between staff
    - Designate a leader
47
Q

What is the difference between criteria for sit-stand lifts between non bariatric patients and bariatric patients?

A

Although the user criteria for sit-stand lifts typically includes partial weight bearing in at least one arm and one leg
For the bariatric patient, we require partial weight bearing in at least one arm and two legs

48
Q

What is recommended when the patient is too heavy for the sit-stand lift?

A

A transfer from bed to stretchair is recommended when the patient is too heavy for the sit-stand lift. Transfers from the stretchair to a table (lying) or wheelchair (seated) can be performed with 3 slider sheets and one HCW for every 100 lbs. These transfers can be bridged with a white board when there is a gap between surfaces
if a bariatric patient is about to fall there is little the HCW can do to prevent it. The HCW needs to move away items that could cause injury, try to protect the patient’s head, and seek assistance once the patient has fallen

49
Q

At what BMI and weight is a person considered bariatric?

A

Bariatric is measured by BMI (Body Mass Index). BMI=kg/m2. Chart gives BMI >40 for bariatric.
At HSC, Bariatric =>350 lbs

50
Q

What precautions need to be taken for bariatric patients in regards to respiratory complications?

A
  1. Pressure on chest when supine
  2. Impingement of abdomen
  3. Apnea

You cannot lay these patients flat, they must be transported with head elevated or side lying. Placing these patients flat on their back is an invitation to cardiac arrest.

51
Q

What concerns are there and precautions to be taken to avoid damaged to bariatric patient’s skin?

A
  1. Skin folds, larger, heavier body parts
  2. Sweating, Rashes, Wounds
    Vulnerable to tearing, infection
    Difficult to grasp
  3. Increased injury risk
    Staff
    Patient
52
Q

What are the challenges for handling bariatric patients?

A
  1. Weight rating of equipment
  2. Low air loss mattress use may be recommended. Fully inflate prior to moving patient
  3. Increased reach distance
    Bed height may need to be altered. Reaching up and over a patient’s chest may be excessive. HCWs should ensure that they adjust bed heights, or use an aerobic bench when required to reduce reaching.
53
Q

What are equipment considerations for bariatric patients?

A
  1. Patient Transport: Bariatric stretchers/ wheelchairs
  2. Patient lifts: Weight and size rated, slings to fit
  3. Lateral transfer aides: Bariatric sliders
  4. Toileting and bathing: standard hospital toilets are rated to 350 lbs.
54
Q

How can you provide for proper toileting for the bariatric patient?

A

Toileting the Bariatric Patient

  1. Check toilet rating
  2. Commode over toilet
  3. Commode at bedside
  4. Lift device to toilet
  5. Check Width of doorways
55
Q

What are some of the bed equipment considerations for the bariatric patient? For moving a bed?

A

Standard hospital beds/mattresses
227 kg/500 lbs
The push and pull forces on the bariatric bed can be excessive, especially when moving up and down ramps.
Ensure that there is adequate staff to share the push and pull.
The guidelines state a minimum – not necessarily a recommended total. Often more is better

56
Q

What does ACES stand for?

A

A - Alert
C - Cooperative
E - Extremities
S - Sits unsupported

Perform ACES screen before assisting the client to stand. Report any changes in the client’s abilities.

57
Q

What are the five patient assessment categories for assisting movement?

A
  1. Independent: no verbal/physical assistance
  2. Standby/Supervised: verbal cueing and/or equipment set up
    Cooperates and follows directions
    Sits/stands unsupported
    No physical assistance from HCW
  3. Minimal Assist:
    Follows instructions, cooperative
    Sits/stands unsupported
    Minor physical assistance (less than 35 lbs)
  4. Moderate Assist:
    Partial weight bearing through legs
    Sits unsupported
    Able to assist with arm(s)
    Equipment necessary
  5. Maximum Assist: Dependent
    Unable to reliably bear weight
    Unable to Sit unsupported
    Unable to assist with arms
    Cannot reliably follow instructions
    May be uncooperative/aggressive (Must be assessed safe before working with).
58
Q

What are the main principles of ergonomic patient handling and movement?

A
  1. Neutral position
  2. Spinal Loading
  3. Working Heights
  4. Weight-shifting
59
Q

What needs to be considered for working heights when you are working with a team?

A

Consider the elbow height of the shortest person, keep their work within 6” above or below their elbow.

60
Q

What is the power range for a team?

A

Power Range:

Area of overlap between two individuals of varying height
Range is approximately 6” above/below the elbow

61
Q

How do you assess a patient’s mobility?

A

Assessing patients mobility:
1. Always ask the patient about their ability to help with an activity.
2. Probing questions
“have you stood up/been walking today?”
“have you been given any pain meds/morphine?”
“when’s the last time you got out of bed?”
3. Perform an ACES check

62
Q

Who typically performs transport of patients?

A

Typically a Healthcare aid or a porter will transport patients from the ward to other areas of the hospital (ex: Diagnostic tests)

63
Q

What are patient mobility/transport types?

A

Patient Mobility/Transport Types:

  1. Ambulatory - can walk freely, not typical of inpatients/ER as patient status can change fast, liability.
  2. Wheelchair/Staxi - Patients who can stand and sit independently and comfortably.
  3. Stretcher - Patients who are unable to stand or sit safely and comfortably
  4. Bed - When patient condition prohibits the use of a stretcher
64
Q

What are some concerns for use of beds for transport of patients?

A

Beds are heavy and cumbersome.
Careful attention to body mechanics must be carried out when moving/repositioning, transporting, or transferring a patient from a bed.

65
Q

Are pediatric patients typically carried? What is used for infants/toddlers?

A

Pediatric patient
Carried - Not typical for hospital transport
Crib - May be used for active infants/toddlers

66
Q

What are some mobility / transfer equipment for infants?

A
  1. Bassinet - Newborn inpatients
  2. Incubator - For premature infants in NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
    Provides a closed warm environment
67
Q

How is the type of safe patient handling equipment determined?

A

The device a patient requires for any safe patient handling task is pre-determined by applying an algorithm to the patient’s capability assessment & the level of assistance required.
Assessment is done
upon admission & discharge from hospital/unit
Prior to any SPH task (by the HCW carrying out the task)
Any change in patient physical/mental health status
Also pre-determined will be
the type of transfer
The amount of healthcare workers (HCWs)

68
Q

What are some types of patient handling devices?

A
Mechanical/hydraulic lifts
Slings
Sit-Stand Aids (non-mechanical)
Friction Reducing Devices (FRDs)
Others
Sliding boards
Toilet seat risers
Trapeze bars
69
Q

When are mechanical/hydraulic lifts used?

A
  1. When Moderate or Maximum assist required

2. Used with various slings for transfer or reposition

70
Q

What are some types of mechanical / hydraulic overhead lifts?

A
  1. Overhead lift system (ceiling or wall mounted)
  2. Total Floor lift (also known as “Hoyer” lift)
  3. Sit-stand lifts
71
Q

Can anyone operate a mechanical / hydraulic lift?

A

No, Requires trained personnel to operate equipment

AHS may be asked to assist/help as additional support

72
Q

What are the different type of slings used with mechanical lifts?

A
  1. Clip slings or Loop slings
  2. Specialty types:
    a) Repositioning
    b) Hygiene care
    c) Amputee slings
73
Q

What are friction reducing devices and when are they used?

A

Reduces force required when repositioning or transferring a patient between surfaces
Used for lateral transfers or repositioning the patient
Comes in various sizes depending on patient weight
Can be Minimal to Maximum Assist
May require more then 1 HCW, more for Bariatric patients

74
Q

What are the different types of friction reducing devices?

A
Air-Assisted Transfer Devices
Slider Sheets
Slider Tubes
Special fabric bed sheets
Roller Boards
75
Q

What are some other transfer devices?

A

Slider Boards
Toilet Seat Risers
Trapeze bars

76
Q

What are the rules and essential considerations?

A
  1. Never assume ability.
  2. Always assess
  3. Always as best as possible for circumstance.
  4. Seek help - HCW/equipment.
  5. Assess and reassess. (recall last module on emergency conditions).
  6. Communicate to patient and other HCW.
  7. Take note of med equipment to bring (i.e. IV, urine bag, etc.)
  8. Remove objects/hazards.
  9. Lock wheels/brakes before move begins.
  10. Assist not lift.
  11. Assist patient on their weak side.
  12. Transfer across shortest distance.
  13. Slide rather than pull.
  14. Go slow enough so patient feels safe.
  15. Preferred when Patient is standing or walking wear shoes or non-slip.
  16. Ensure patient is comfortable & safe after transfer.
77
Q

How should you work as a team in terms of communication?

A

prearrange a signal such as lifting on the count of three.

For patient and additional HCWs

78
Q

What documentation should be looked for and where?

A

Check patient chart for documentation
ID band
EMR (electronic medical record)
LOGO (see slide 44 for example)

Should be near/close to patient

79
Q

What procedures need to be followed?

A

Follow any Safe Work Procedures (SWP) to ensure best practice
A template that includes responsibilities and any requirements to safely carryout the task

80
Q

What are some common type of transfers?

A

Minimal Assist Wheelchair Transfers
Moderate Assist Stretcher/bed transfers
Moderate/Maximum Assist Hydraulic lift transfers

81
Q

What are the requirements for wheelchair transfers?

A

Follows SWP
Minimal Assist patient capability assessment outcome (<35lbs)
Anything greater generally requires the use of equipment and/or mechanical lifts fit for the task
Ensure breaks/locks are engaged on both receiving and transfer surface
Remove/displace footrests prior to initiating the transfer

82
Q

What is important to remember for wheelchair transfers?

A

Remember this is an assist-patient must be able to weight bear, and sit/stand unsupported
Assistance is to help for the exertion required to get from sitting to standing
Wheelchair transfers pose a greater risk for injuries and/or falls

83
Q

What are wheel chair transfer belts?

A

Slides 53-57

84
Q

What are the requirements for Stretcher / Bed Transfers?

A

Moderate Assist patient capability outcomes

Requires use of Friction Reducing Devices (FRDs) or a slider board

85
Q

What type of transfers are carried out with slider sheets?

A

Various transfers carried out with slider sheets
Reposition/turn/boost/lateral transfer
Each has its accompanying SWP

Patient’s weight will determine device size and # HCWs for the transfer
Bariatric patients may require the use of mechanical lifts depending on the task. Type of transfer should be outlined in their charts. If unsure-always seek advice

Once the patient has been transferred/repositioned, the sheets are removed from underneath the patient

86
Q

What is a slider board?

A

Slider board is a strong sheet of plastic with handholds cut at the edge that is the length of the patient’s body
Usually used to complete lateral transfers
The board may be kept under the patient when transferred onto the table

87
Q

What is a logroll transfer and when is it performed?

A

In the event that a trauma patient or patient with a suspected known or unknown spinal injury needs to be moved
If the patient needs to vomit
To prevent decubitus ulcers from forming
To prevent potential spinal injury to patient
Must be performed correctly to maintain correct anatomical alignment of patient’s spine
If not performed correctly, could cause a catastrophic neurologic injury

88
Q

What are some characteristics and requirements for hydraulic lifts and transfer devices?

A

Characteristics of lifts:
partial weight bearing (moderate) = sit to stand lifts
Patient unable to sit/stand unsupported = total floor or ceiling lifts (Ability to support total patient weight)
Requires special training to operate
AHS may be asked to assist
Requires the use of slings

89
Q

What are some high risk transfers and why are they bad?

A

Pivot Transfers
Manual Lift/hold/carry
“Hook and Toss” Axilla Drag
Draw sheets or incontinence pads for repositioning
Lifting or holding patient limbs
Simultaneously swinging leg and trunk of patient

90
Q

What is mental health?

A

Mental health is a state of well‐being in which every individual realizes their
own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively
and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to their community.”

91
Q

What are the stages of mental health from green to red?

A

Green - good mental health
yellow/orange - declining mental health
red - diagnosable disorder

92
Q

What is affected in the reacting/ injured stage?

A
Mood
Thinking and attitude.
Behavior and performance
Physicals
Substance use and addictive behavior.
93
Q

What are characteristics of burnout?

A

Characteristics:
o feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion;
o increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or
cynicism related to one’s job; and
o reduced professional efficacy.

94
Q

What are causes of burnout?

A
Burnout Causes:
o Lack of control
o Lack of support
o Unclear expectations
o Dysfunctional workplace dynamics
o Work‐life imbalance
95
Q

List the Strategies to Promote Wellbeing.

A
Part Two – Strategies to Promote Wellbeing
o Breathing strategies
o Mindfulness
o Social connection
o Purpose and meaning
o Physical activity
o Gratitude
96
Q

Breathing strategies

A

o Slow, deep breaths:
◦ activate the parasympathetic nervous system
◦ allow clearer thinking (better decision making)
◦release physical tension in the body
◦ allow body systems to restore

97
Q

Mindfulness

A

o Paying attention, on purpose, to the present moment with patience
and non‐judgement
o Thoughts are not facts
o Common workplace intervention
o Mindwell – Available free to all RRC staff and students
owww.rrc.ca/wellness/mindwell

98
Q

Social Connection

A

o Positive relationships with others
o Contribute to sense of security and belonging
o Feel more supported and less alone

99
Q

Purpose and Meaning

A

o Setting goals
o Celebrating success
o Knowing and focusing on your life’s purpose

100
Q

Physical Activity

A

o Look for ways to move often throughout your day
o Avoid all‐or‐nothing thinking
o Improves mood, concentration, self‐esteem, energy levels, sleep
o Decreases anxiety and stress

101
Q

Gratitude

A
o Notice and reflect on good things
o Small and often
o Boosts immune system
o Helps build social relationships
o Improved coping
102
Q

What are some Workplace Stressors?

A
o Running behind in appointments
o Patients agitated‐take it out on you
o Leaving current patient in the room to seek help from others
o No one else available to help you out
o Missed breaks/lunch
103
Q

What are some Prolonged Stress Reactions?

A
o Significant and/or persistent negative changes in behavior/habits
o Uncharacteristic behavior
o Making more mistakes
o Becoming more isolated from others
o Compulsive behaviour
104
Q

Wellness Check

A

o Student leaves their name and telephone number using a secure
online form.
o Counsellor calls them for a brief, supportive conversation.
o Provide an opportunity to be directed to helpful resources where
appropriate.

105
Q

Counselling Services

A

o Student completes the secure online intake form to get
started.
o Can usually get a first appointment in a week or two.
o Help with personal/relational challenges, managing
mental wellness, and crisis.

106
Q

What is MindBeacon?

A

It is an iCBT app/program that helps with

sadness, depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic, chronic pain, insomnia, managing alcohol and more

107
Q

Same Day Crisis Service

A

o If the situation cannot wait for a regularly scheduled
appointment and may result in serious consequences or
distress
o Complete a secure online form.
o Someone will respond to you within one business day.
oRRC services can be requested at www.rrc.ca/counselling

108
Q

Workplace Benefits

A

o EFAP (Employee and Family Assistance Program)
o Extended Health Plan
o Coverage for Psychologists and Social Workers

109
Q

Public Mental Health Care

A
o Primary care provider
o Specialists – Psychiatrist
o Psychologists
o Crisis services
o Crisis Response Centre, 817 Bannatyne
o Mobile Crisis Service, 204‐940‐1781