Safe Patient Handling and Movement Techniques in Nursing

Safe Patient Handling and Movement Techniques in Nursing

Important: Patient handling is the leading cause of musculoskeletal injuries in healthcare workers. Proper techniques can prevent 80% of these injuries.

Core Principles of Safe Patient Handling

Always assess the patient's mobility level before moving
Use mechanical lifts whenever possible (never manual lifting >35 lbs)
Maintain proper body mechanics at all times
Get adequate help - don't be a hero
Explain the procedure to the patient first
Ensure the environment is safe (lock brakes, clear space)

Common Patient Handling Techniques

1. Turning Patients in Bed (Log Roll Technique)
  1. Lower bed to waist level
  2. Cross patient's arms over chest
  3. Bend knees if possible
  4. Place hands on shoulder and hip
  5. Roll patient as a unit (like a log)
  6. Use pillows for support in new position
[Illustration: Nurse with wide stance, knees bent, rolling patient while keeping back straight]
2. Moving Patient Up in Bed
  1. Lower head of bed
  2. Remove pillows
  3. Have patient bend knees with feet flat
  4. Two caregivers: Each place one arm under shoulders, one under thighs
  5. On count of 3, shift weight from back to front foot
  6. Use draw sheet if available
[Illustration: Two nurses coordinating movement with draw sheet]
3. Transferring from Bed to Chair
  1. Position chair at 45° angle to bed
  2. Lock both bed and wheelchair brakes
  3. Assist patient to sitting position (bedside sitting)
  4. Apply gait belt if patient can bear weight
  5. Stand facing patient with wide base of support
  6. Rock patient to standing on count of 3
  7. Pivot toward chair, lowering slowly
[Illustration: Proper pivot transfer technique with gait belt]

Equipment-Assisted Techniques

Equipment When to Use Proper Technique
Mechanical Lift Non-weight bearing patients Always use sling, check weight capacity, lift smoothly
Slide Board Lateral transfers (bed to stretcher) Position at 30° angle, use pull sheet if needed
Gait Belt Patients with some mobility Place around waist, grasp from underneath
Stand Assist Patients who can bear weight Have patient help push up using armrests

Body Mechanics for Nurses

Proper Lifting Posture
Never Do:

Special Considerations

Bariatric Patients: Use bariatric equipment rated for weight, more assistive personnel
Post-Surgical Patients: Protect incision sites, watch for lines/tubes
Neurological Patients: Consider spasticity, flaccidity
Elderly Patients: Account for fragile skin, osteoporosis
Uncooperative Patients: Get additional help, consider alternatives

Pre-Shift Safety Checklist

Inspect all lifting equipment
Locate transfer aids (slide boards, gait belts)
Review patient mobility assessments
Identify high-risk patients
Confirm staff availability for 2-person assists