WEEK 2 - Manual Handling

Question 1

history of manual handling

Answer 1

oshea no lift system developed in 1995

Question 2

manual handling

Answer 2

refers to any activity requiring the use of force by a person to lift, lower, push, pull or restrain something

Question 3

injuries associated with manual handling

Answer 3

• back injuries are the most common
• soft tissue injuries
• weakened abdominal muscles
• chronic pain conditions

Question 4

manual handling policies

Answer 4

duties and employers (section 21): a working environment that is safe and without risks to health
duties of employees (section 25): take care of own safety, care of people in their care, cooperate with employer

Question 5

on bed tasks

Answer 5

• must be able to cooperate and comprehend instructions
• must be able to move ow body weight in bed

Question 6

off bed tasks

Answer 6

• must be able to cooperate and comprehend instructions
• stand unsupported
• maintain balance without aids
• no recent history of unexpected falls
  »> must meet ALL criteria

Question 7

manual handling principles

Answer 7

1. reduce MH where possible
2. maximise patient independence
3. do not become linked/connected/hooked to patients
4. use bed mechanisms to reduce forces
5. transfer at same level or lower
6. push rather than pull or lift
7. keep natural spine curves - reduce bending
8. reduce shoulder abduction, overreaching, overexertion
9. avoid sudden movements
10. speak up about bad practices

Question 8

slide sheets

Answer 8

assist in moving patient up and down the bed
- requires 2 nurses
- requires 2 slide sheets

Question 9

transfer hoist

Answer 9

transferring a patient from one location to another
- requires 2 nurses
- patient considerations required (no fractures)

Question 10

hovermatt or hoverjack

Answer 10

assists in transferring patient between beds or raising patients from floor
- requires 2 nurses

Question 11

standing lifter

Answer 11

assists transferring a patient from bed to chair
- Patient must wear adequate footwear, follow instructions, bear some weight through legs and feet, not be tired
- 2 nurses

Question 12

overhead hoist

Answer 12

patient must be able to follow instructions, prepare everything to reduce hang time, ensure right sling is being used
- 2 nurses

Question 13

bed mechanics

Answer 13

always use to help with MH tasks - ensure correct mattress is being used - check patient fits bed

Question 14

common non-compliance areas

Answer 14

• incorrect use of slide sheets
• the height of bed not considered
• not enough staff
• clutter in rooms
• allowing patients to hold onto you
• pushing beds or trolleys manually

Question 15

bariatric patient + considerations

Answer 15

• weight exceeds 120kg
• bed sizes, appropriate equipment, enough staff

Question 16

risk factors for patient falls

Answer 16

age, gender, cognitive state, medications, sensory impairments