Reader Poll Results

Patient Outcomes

Would nurses use assistive lifting devices in even more cases if they knew they could increase patient safety and improve patient outcomes?

Comments:

• I think patient safety information is important as another reason for using assistive devices. I do not think it will change staff behavior to a significant degree.
• Nurses are truly focused on doing the right thing for their patients and information on how equipment helps patients is positive
• Will likely continue to report they take too long to use.
• In surveys, they want to improve safety but are concerned about the time factors involved.
• Need to provide quantifiable proof of "increase"
• I know numerous units with lift equipment who do not utilize lift equipment to even a portion of their potential. I've also seen and hear the response of "I'll just call lift team." I wish more RN's would learn the lifts and use them because it would save so much time rather than waiting for a lift team to come around.

Would even more healthcare managers support safe patient handling programs if the emphasis were on improving patient outcomes instead of preventing nursing injuries?

Comments:

• I think that senior leadership, above day to day managers would support lifting devices use if related to better patient outcomes and decrease in patient injuries.
• Again outcomes are what nursing is about and statistical information related to safe patient handling would be a driving force
• Injury prevention and cost containment will be leading priority
• Yes, patient safety is what is directing hospital resources now. We are beginning to track all falls and skin injuries related to patient handling and will be reporting these as well as caregiver injuries to management. They are paying attention, especially to injuries to patient from falls that could have been prevented if a lift had been used.
• Hard to say but I think it would be a good approach in some countries where injuries among nurses isn’t perceived as a problem among managers and others. The cost for sick-leave and other costs that usually comes with injured nurses/other staff doesn’t exist in all countries due to other systems being used than in for example western European countries. It’s always a good thing to be able to present improved patient outcomes.
• Studies have shown that support for programs has to be from the top administrative teams and enforced from the top down. The approach emphasis isn’t the issue.

Would even more patients be receptive to using assistive lifting devices if they knew they could increase their safety and enhance their outcomes?

Comments:

• I think patients are fine with the use of lifting devices if the process for their use is clearly explained and the staff know and understand how to appropriately use the specific device.
• Loads of information is available to patients. Let’s start including SPH stats and info.
• This would need to be communicated early (at admission) and repeatedly reinforced.
• A good communication between the nurses/rehab staff and patients is very important and this approach should absolutely be perceived as positive for the patients.
• I think how the staff educates the patients is the key. If the staff backs the program, then patients will as well.
• I have used the lift pants, liftaem/air pal, and various lifts with several patients and although scary at first once the pt realizes the safety of this kind of equipment they love it.

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