An assessment of nurses' knowledge regarding patient lifting and handling techniques

Abstract

Patient lifting and handling techniques are basic nursing skills. These are practised in order to mobilise patients who may, otherwise, suffer from numerous complications. Lifting techniques can be done either manually, or by using lifting resources, such as hoists. However, if mismanaged or practised incorrectly, these techniques can have several consequences. Nurses may suffer from back pain or back injury, whereas patients may suffer from pressure sores or dislocations. Therefore, nurses should know and practise correctly the principles and the guidelines which need to be followed for practising any lifting technique. Thus, it was decided to assess registered nurses' knowledge regarding patient lifting and handling techniques. During the month of January of 1996, a questionnaire was distributed amongst all the registered nurses working at an elderly care hospital. Seventeen registered nurses were asked to participate in the research study. Fifteen respondents returned the questionnaire. The most important findings reflected that although most of the registered nurses do a patient handling assessment, this is usually done incorrectly. Moreover, the Drawsheet Method and the Drag Lift are the lifting techniques used most frequently, even though are not the ones which are mostly recommended by the literature. Furthermore, although the respondents were aware of the consequences of mismanaged patient lifting techniques, lifting devices were not used even if available. However, when considering that the respondents have acquired their knowledge from experience and routine work only, one may justify such practices. It is therefore recommended that in-service training should be provided in order to increase registered nurses' academic and professional knowledge regarding patient lifting and handling techniques. This improved knowledge and skills may ultimately lead to improved and safer patient care.