Comparison of Three Single-Person Manual Patient Techniques for Bed-to-Wheelchair Transfers

Abstract

The uniqueness of the home environment still requires home health clinicians to lift and transfer patients manually, tasks that are known to cause back injuries. Three manual patient transfers were evaluated to establish the technique with the least risk to the low back. Patient and worker perceptions as well as preferences, exposure duration, and a biomechanical low back evaluation are presented, together with transfer technique recommendations.

Musculoskeletal Discomfort, Physical Demand, and Caregiving Activities in Informal Caregivers

“…The biomechanical loads imposed by relatively straight forward transfer activities (e.g. sit-to-stand or stand pivot transfers) can exceed tissue tolerances and increase the risk of injury (Hess, Kincl, & Mandeville, 2007; Marras, Davis, Kirking, & Bertsche, 1999). Exposure to these tasks is one explanation for the high rates of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) that occur in paid home health care workers (home health aides), as well as homecare nursing and rehabilitation personnel (Smedley, Egger, Cooper, and Coggon, 1995; Engels, van der Gulden, Senden, and van’t Hof, 1996; Craib, Hackett, Back, Cvitkovich, & Yassi, 2007; Campo et al, 2008; Darragh, Huddleston & King, 2009).…”

Should My Patient Use a Mechanical Lift? A Review of the Literature

“…In a study comparing the risk of three different single person transfers, each transfer technique-squat pivot, standing pivot, and sliding board-placed the healthcare worker at moderate risk for low back disorder. This result was found after the certified nursing assistants underwent 5 hours of transfer training by a physical therapist (Hess et al, 2007). The need to protect healthcare workers from work-related musculoskeletal injuries as the result of patient handling and movement has substantial national and professional support.…”

The COMPASS Pilot Study

“…Therefore, HCWs often perform dangerous tasks without assistive tools or help from peers, such as moving heavy objects or physically transferring consumer-employers from one position to another. [9][10][11] Although relationships with consumeremployers can be meaningful and highly rewarding for HCWs, 12 it can be stressful and demanding to care for individuals with disabilities and those who are nearing the end of their life. In traditional work environments the employer is responsible for providing a safe environment in which to work.…”