Manual Handling Essay Example

over the decades. (Safe patient handling and movement, website, 2006) The current Manual handling procedures that are being used within hospitals, aged care facilities and Nursing homes are in place as the aim is to use the appropriate aids. Aids such as slide sheets, walking belts, commodes, hoist, trolley wheelchairs and even a range of beds and mattresses help to assist workers to work within their ‘scope of practice’.

Using correct equipments can help to prevent injury and make the patients feel as ease. (OHS manual handling, website, 2009), (NSW Nurse’ Association and Work Cover NSW, website, 1998) There are numerous aids and types of transfers to support workers to use safe manual handling tasks. Using these aids benefits our care for a patient when being transferred; it not only decreases the length of time to carryout the procedure but most importantly lowers the risk of harm. OHS manual handling, website, 2009) All risk factors must be identified when performing Manual handling. There are standard lifting guidelines that must be followed and are the most effective procedures to trying to minimize potential injuries. As all manual handling risks cant be eliminated a step-by-step risk assessment should be cared out Step 1: Identify the hazard, step 2: Assess the risk, step 3: Control the risk and step 4: Follow workplace policies, procedures and protocols.

Therefore by assessing and reducing likely risks and acting on them when brought to our attention will improve care and lower the number of injuries. (Major workplace Hazards, 2003, p. 1-6), (Safetysolutions, website, 2008), (OHS manual handling, website, 2009) So by working within our scope of practice and following policies

and procedures that have been implemented and obtaining the correct training we are at lower risks to occurring injury. (S. A. R. R. A. H, website, 2012)