Nursing Assistant Monthly Copyright © 2015 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Staying injury-free at work Preventing back pain

Copyright © 2015 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Back injury is common among caregivers  CNAs and nurses experience high rates of back injury compared to other professions.  Nursing employees suffer about 35,000 back injuries each year that prevent them from working. October 2015Preventing back pain

Copyright © 2015 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Why is lifting bodies so dangerous?  Caregivers should not lift more than 35 pounds of weight.  Person being lifted may not cooperate.  Room may be small or cluttered with furniture or equipment.  Lifting in an awkward position increases risk of injury.  There is often not enough help to move residents safely. October 2015Preventing back pain

Copyright © 2015 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. The 1 st step in safe resident handling  Nurse or physical therapist assesses the resident. –Instructions for the resident’s mobility assistance needs should be on the care plan. –The care plan should state the type of help the resident needs.  The CNA’s job is to find this information on the care plan. or  Ask the nurse or physical therapist the best way to help the resident with mobility. October 2015Preventing back pain

Copyright © 2015 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Using mechanical lift equipment  Only use a mechanical lift if: –you have been trained to use it. –you feel comfortable using it. –the resident is cooperative and comfortable using it.  Get help if you are unsure about how to use a certain piece of equipment.  It’s okay to ask for a refresher if you have forgotten how to use the lift. October 2015Preventing back pain

Copyright © 2015 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Other types of mobility aids  Special low-friction slide sheets  Sliding boards  Gait belts  Stand-assist devices  Geriatric chairs It is important to understand how to use the mobility equipment at your facility. ** October 2015Preventing back pain

Copyright © 2015 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Not sure what to do?  Take the initiative –Ask the staff development person or supervisor for an in-service on safe resident handling. –Suggest a refresher for all staff on the use of mechanical lifts at your facility. –If a resident is fearful of a mechanical lift, ask the nurse or physical therapist to help. –If you feel a transfer is unsafe for you or the resident, speak to your supervisor or a nurse. October 2015Preventing back pain

Copyright © 2015 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Use good body mechanics While it’s important to use equipment to transfer residents, it is also important to use good body mechanics throughout your day.  Keep your back straight.  Bring objects close to you before lifting.  Avoid twisting and overreaching.  Use your leg muscles instead of your back.  Get enough rest. October 2015Preventing back pain