Reader Poll Results

What is your single most important consideration when faced with the need to lift or reposition a patient?

Results:

• Follow existing policies & procedures (7%)
• Speed of response – get the job done (10%)
• My patient's safety (50%)
• My personal safety (30%)
• Seek help from colleagues (3%)

Sample Comments:

• I’ve seen too many people get hurt in this job not to think about my own safety first. If I get hurt, I can’t help my resident anyway!
• If I’m not safe then I can’t help the patient!
• Patient Safety is the goal in all we do. The reality is that in line with helping the patient, staff often is torn between getting the job done quickly and not wanting to get hurt.
• It is not just the safety of the patient, though, that needs to be considered. So it is hard just to choose one option. The safety of all involved, patient and staff is equal in my opinion.
• Patient Safety is number one consideration. I still need to be conscious of my own safety and I would do that by following policy, using lifting equipment or getting help as appropriate. Speed is the only answer that should not play a part in my decision.
• My patient’s safety and my personal safety are equally important
• Speed of response since many lifting issues are related to catching failing patients. Also, the repercussions from moving too slowly to transfer a patient can mean that the patient misses a needed test or procedure.
• The answer that most describes the decision process is an integration of all five, with pt safety being paramount.

NOTE: If you need assistance with your injury prevention program, please contact one of our Safe Lifting Consultants at 888-545-6671 x 307