1. Nursing Assistant Monthly Copyright © 2008 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. On-the-job safety October 2008

2. Copyright © 2008 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. On-the-job safety October 2008 2 Staying injury-free at work Statistics show that:  the health care field is one of the riskiest career choices in terms of on-the-job injuries.  health care is second only to manufacturing in the rate of job-related injuries.  job related injuries are costly in terms of: –lost productivity, wages, medical costs. –pain and suffering of the injured person. –costs of replacing the injured worker temporarily or permanently.

3. Copyright © 2008 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. On-the-job safety October 2008 3 Most common injuries  Musculoskeletal injuries—especially of the back—are the most common injuries among direct care workers.  These injuries most often occur when transferring or lifting patients/residents.  Repeated, small injuries (micro tears) may go unnoticed and lead to more serious injury over time.

4. Copyright © 2008 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. On-the-job safety October 2008 4 Why do injuries happen? Risks in environment  Cluttered room  Spills on floor Resident-related risk  Residents’ ability to help may vary or be unpredictable  Resident may be combative or fearful Health care worker risks  Fatigue, rushed, lack of staff to help

5. Copyright © 2008 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. On-the-job safety October 2008 5 Avoiding injury Follow the care plan regarding the resident’s mobility needs  Based on the nurse or physical therapist’s assessment Use good body mechanics  Bend at knees, not at waist  Avoid over-reaching or twisting  Hold objects close to your body when lifting  Keep your back straight Learn to properly operate mechanical lifts in use at your facility

6. Copyright © 2008 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. On-the-job safety October 2008 6 Safe patient/resident handling Using good body mechanics alone is not enough to prevent injury to staff and residents. Mechanical lifts, when used properly, are:  safer for the staff.  safer for the resident.  less costly in the long run, than the costs that come with injuries.

7. Copyright © 2008 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. On-the-job safety October 2008 7 Mechanical lifts  Modern lifts are better designed and easier to use than older models.  Caregivers must be trained on safe use.  Using the correct size slings is essential for safety and resident comfort.  Lifts, slings, and related equipment must be maintained properly.  A staff person should be assigned to check the equipment daily.

8. Copyright © 2008 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. On-the-job safety October 2008 8 Some final thoughts Remember:  You are ultimately responsible for your own safety.  Except in a life-threatening emergency (such as fire) never proceed with a lift or resident transfer that you feel is unsafe.  Ask a physical therapist or nurse for advice if you are unsure of the proper way to lift or transfer a resident.