Injuries That Occured When Lifting or Moving a Patient

When lifting or moving a patient, one’s body becomes more susceptible to injury. Some factors that contribute to this type of injury include:

• Lifting a heavy or obese patient

• Lifting a patient in a tight or awkward space

• Improper lifting technique

• Hazardous weather conditions

In 2013, 353 reported injuries were a result of lifting or moving a patient. 

The most common body part affected by lifting or moving patients was the back, followed by the shoulder. Back related injuries accounted for 52% of injuries caused by lifting or moving patients. The majority of back injuries were minor, accounting for 74% while 26% were serious injuries. Shoulder injuries accounted for 11% of injuries caused by lifting or moving patients. The majority of shoulder injuries were minor, accounting for 65% of these injuries, while the remaining 45% were serious. 

In order to avoid injuries while lifting or moving patients it is recommended to revisit proper lifting techniques.

To learn more about avoiding these types of injuries please visit the Emerson Library.

Library Resources:

PATIENT HANDLING
AV06-2048  Date Acquired: 12/29/2006  Length: 21:25  Format: V  Author: VFIS
This training program on Patient Handling, produced by VFIS, demonstrates proper patient transfer; safe lifting and carrying methods; and equipment maintenanace procedures for EMS personnel. The training packet contains an Instructor's Guide, a Participant Manual, a Methodology Handbook and one CDROM. The CDROM contains powerpoint overheads. The video can be used as a stand alone educational tool or can be used in conjunction with the training packet. Classes may be conducted in 2 hours, 4 hours or 6-8 hours. (2000) 

PROPER LIFTING TECHNIQUES - KEEPING YOUR WORKPLACE SAFE
AV11-2532  Date Acquired: 8/5/2011  Length: 15:29  Format: DV  Author: KANTOLA PRODUCTIONS
You can’t rely on instinct when it comes to lifting properly. If you don’t stop and think before you grab that heavy crate or unwieldy piece of plywood, you can get seriously hurt. In fact, 8 out of10 of us will end up suffering some kind of back injury in our lifetimes. But much of this can be prevented with the use of specific lifting techniques that maintain proper alignment and support the back throughout the lifting process. Safe lifting procedures include: basic guidelines for every lift; specialized and industrial loads; how to lift awkward or oversized objects; team lifting situations. (c2009) View a sample video clip online here http://bit.ly/omV8Oo.

BACK INJURY PREVENTION
AV11-2513  Date Acquired: 8/2/2011  Length: 40:58  Format: DV  Author: EMERGENCY FILM GROUP
Firefighting is a physically challenging job, even for the fittest of fire fighters. Back injuries are the leading cause of disability and disability retirement for fire fighters. This three chapter series is designed to teach fire fighters and other emergency responders valuable techniques to maintain a healthy back. Chapter 1: Back Function and Exercises. Chapter 2: Correct Posture and Lifting Techniques. Chapter 3: Protecting the Back at Work. This video was created by medical professionals with the School Nursing, the School of Health and the School of Medicine at the University of Alabama-Birmingham. It was filmed with the assistance of the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service. (c1994)

YOU ARE THE EMT: LIFTING AND MOVING 
AV05-1828  Date Acquired: 3/4/2005  Length: 30:00  Format: VHS  Author: AAOS
This is the 6th video in the 10 part 'You Are The EMT' Video Series. This video show four separate situations of real patients with medical or trauma complaints with a focus on lifting, moving, and positioning of those patients according to their mechanism of injury, level of consciousness, present state of health or injuries, and available resources. A teaching booklet accompanies the video. (2000)