Training program promotes safe lifting

Healthcare organizations that have experienced a lot of patient lifting injuries should take a cue from the Alamance Regional Medical Center in Burlington, NC and start a training program for staff, according to Safeliftingportal.com.

The center’s Safe Patient Handling and Movement program has succeeded in eliminating lifting injuries. The program includes a two hour class that is mandatory for all clinical staff, with extra time devoted to practice – staff members take turns lifting each other so there is clear understanding of the procedure.

The program began after the center experienced a number of employee back injuries and shoulder pain that led to increased workers compensation costs. After implementing the program, the costs decreased, saving the center money. Patient injuries decreased, too, which is even more important.

“Since implementation, we’ve had no lifting or moving injuries,” said Mary Jane Brown, an employee health nurse. “Plus, our employees aren’t exhausted from lifting patients all day.”