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NUR1114 Nursing > Week 8: Manual Handling > Flashcards

Week 8: Manual Handling Flashcards

1
Q

What is…

A field of study and practice focused on ensuring workplace environments are safe and healthy for employees, including the implementation of safety regulations and practices to prevent accidents and injuries.

A

Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S)

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2
Q

What is…

A manual handling method where a person is lifted by placing one arm under their back and the other under their knees, a technique that can put significant strain on the lifter’s back and shoulders.

A

Fireman’s Lift

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3
Q

What should you do if you are using slide sheets for patient handling?
a) Fold them if only one is available
b) Use two full-length slide sheets for better safety
c) Use them without proper training
d) Only use them for small patients

A

b) Use two full-length slide sheets for better safety

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4
Q

What was the recommended lifting technique taught in the early 1980s?

A

Nurses were taught to plant their feet firmly, engage their core, stand close to the load, and lift it up.

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5
Q

What is…

The process by which patients experience physical decline due to prolonged bed rest or inactivity in a hospital setting, which is now minimized by encouraging early movement and activity post-surgery.

A

Hospital-induced Deconditioning

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6
Q

How does following safe manual handling practices impact patient care?

A

It improves patient care by decreasing the number of patient injuries and promoting patient independence.

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7
Q

What do the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 2004 and the Manual Handling Regulations of 2017 outline?

A

They outline the responsibilities of both employers and employees in ensuring safe manual handling practices.

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8
Q

Define:

WorkSafe’s WorkCover

A

A system that provides compensation for workers who are injured on the job, covering medical expenses and time off work for up to 18 months to two years, depending on the severity of the injury.

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9
Q

Why is manual handling considered a better approach than the old lifting techniques?

A

Manual handling addresses the limitations of old lifting techniques and aims to reduce the risk of injuries associated with repetitive or heavy lifting.

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10
Q

What should you check about the mattress before using it?

A

Ensure the mattress is appropriate for the patient and in good condition, especially for larger patients.

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11
Q

What happens if an employee is injured and unable to return to work?

A

If an employee is still unfit to return after WorkCover’s coverage period, it could mean the end of their employment if they can’t perform their role.

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12
Q

What is…

A legal process an employee may pursue if an employer is found to have not provided a safe working environment, potentially leading to compensation for damages but involving lengthy and complex legal procedures.

A

Common Law Claim

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13
Q

What is…

A term used to describe patients in a healthcare context, referring to their unpredictability and the lack of handles or support mechanisms, making them more challenging to move or lift safely.

A

Live Load

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14
Q

What must a patient be able to do for a standing machine to be used effectively?

A

The patient must be able to support their own body weight and maintain some level of balance.

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15
Q

How can rushing tasks contribute to injuries?

A

Rushing tasks can lead to accidents and injuries, such as falling or improper handling of patients, due to not taking adequate time for safe practices.

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16
Q

Define:

Slide Sheets

A

Equipment used to facilitate the smooth transfer of patients by reducing friction and the need for excessive physical effort.

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17
Q

What is…

A system involving tracks and lifting equipment installed above the bed to facilitate safe patient transfers and reduce physical strain on staff. It represents a modern advancement in patient handling equipment.

A

Overhead Tracking

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18
Q

How do you determine the level of assistance a patient needs?

A

Assess whether they are independent, need supervision, can assist, or are unable to assist, and document their level of dependency.

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19
Q

What is the first step you should take before performing a manual handling task?

A

Stop, assess, and plan what you’re doing.

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20
Q

What is…

Specialized care and manual handling techniques for patients with obesity or complex care needs, involving additional considerations and safety measures due to the increased risk associated with handling larger patients.

A

Bariatric Care

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21
Q

Why is it important to comply with manual handling procedures?

A

Compliance reduces the risk of injury and strain, helps maintain longevity in the profession, and reduces fatigue.

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22
Q

Define:

Standing Machines

A

Devices designed to assist patients in standing by providing support and stability. They require the patient to be able to support some of their own weight and are used to bring patients into a standing position safely.

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23
Q

Why is it important to keep equipment storage areas organized?

A

Organized storage areas prevent accidents and injuries related to tripping or mishandling equipment.

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24
Q

Where is the most significant risk when handling patients, on the bed or off the bed?

A

The most significant risk is off the bed due to the unpredictable nature of the patient and the lack of stable surfaces.

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25
# Define: Manual Handling Regulations of 2017
Regulations that provide specific guidelines and requirements for safe manual handling practices to prevent injury and ensure safety in the workplace.
26
What can be the consequences of poor manual handling practices?
Consequences can range from minor injuries to more severe or lifelong injuries that may take a longer time to recover from.
27
Which of the following is a common injury resulting from improper manual handling? a) Headache b) Back strain c) Broken wrist d) Migraine
b) Back strain
28
Why is raising the bed important for preventing injuries?
Raising the bed helps avoid back strain and reduces the risk of injury from bending and twisting.
29
What is a recommended practice for transferring patients?
Transfer patients at the same level or lower; avoid moving someone uphill.
30
# Define: Common Law Claim
A legal process an employee may pursue if an employer is found to have not provided a safe working environment, potentially leading to compensation for damages but involving lengthy and complex legal procedures.
31
How do hover mats assist with patient transfers?
Hover mats inflate to hover the patient, allowing for safe movement with minimal effort.
32
# What is... Inflatable mats that lift patients with minimal physical effort, using air pressure to create a hover effect that makes it easier to move patients. They are used in conjunction with hover jacks for efficient patient transfers.
Hover Mats
33
# What is... A senior nursing professional with extensive experience who provides expert advice and support on clinical practices and health issues, often involved in training and safety management.
Clinical Nurse Consultant
34
Which piece of equipment is designed to reduce strain when moving patients? a) Manual hoist b) Hover mat c) Ergonomic chair d) Adjustable bed
b) Hover mat
35
What is a common cause of back strain related to manual handling in nursing?
One common cause is not raising the bed to an appropriate height, leading to bending and twisting.
36
# What is... A patient who can follow instructions, move their own body weight, and maintain balance without requiring substantial support from healthcare staff.
Independent Patient
37
# Define: Violence, Injury, Hazard Management System (VIHMS)
A system used to record and manage incidents related to occupational violence, manual handling, needle-stick injuries, and other workplace hazards.
38
What triggered the development of the No-Lift System?
The development was triggered by an incident where a midwife at Peninsula Health experienced a back spasm while assisting with a birth, which ended her nursing career.
39
# What is... Systematic recommendations based on evidence that guide clinical decision-making and practice. In this context, they refer to protocols for using equipment safely.
Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs)
40
Why are nurses and midwives at a higher risk of injury?
Nurses and midwives are at a higher risk because they work with patients, who are unpredictable and do not have handles to assist with lifting or moving.
41
What should you do if you see someone taking shortcuts with patient handling?
Do not engage in those practices and emphasize the importance of using proper techniques from the start.
42
# Define: Shoulder Lift
A manual handling technique involving lifting a load using the shoulder and arm, which is not recommended for frequent or heavy lifting due to the risk of injury to the shoulder joint.
43
# Define: Occupational Health and Safety Act of 2004
A legislative framework that outlines the responsibilities of employers and employees to ensure a safe working environment and protect health and safety at work.
44
# What is... The process of moving, lifting, carrying, or supporting items or people, particularly in a healthcare setting, which requires proper techniques and safety measures to prevent injury.
Manual Handling
45
# What is... A system that provides compensation for workers who are injured on the job, covering medical expenses and time off work for up to 18 months to two years, depending on the severity of the injury.
WorkSafe’s WorkCover
46
What should you do if you only have one slide sheet available?
You should use two full-length slide sheets to safely move the patient; folding one in half compromises safety.
47
A position where the patient’s head is lower than their feet, often used in specific medical situations; it can be adjusted using modern bed mechanics.
Trendelenburg Position
48
How much weight might nurses lift during a shift?
Nurses might lift the equivalent of 1.8 tonnes over the course of a shift.
49
What is a common injury risk when carrying vital sign monitoring equipment?
Injuries can occur from lifting equipment improperly or carrying it in an awkward manner.
50
What is manual handling?
Manual handling involves any force exerted to lift, push, pull, hold, restrain, or maintain an awkward posture.
51
How should intravenous fluids, parental feeds, or bladder washouts be moved?
Use a trolley and get help to move these items; do not push or pull beds and trolleys alone.
52
What responsibilities do employees have under these regulations?
Employees must take reasonable care of their own health and safety and the safety of others, and cooperate with their employer in following safe working practices.
53
# Define: Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S)
A field of study and practice focused on ensuring workplace environments are safe and healthy for employees, including the implementation of safety regulations and practices to prevent accidents and injuries.
54
What is the first step in assessing a patient for manual handling?
All patients need to be screened to determine whether they need assistance and what kind of assistance they require.
55
What must a patient be able to do to be considered independent when on the bed?
They must be able to cooperate, comprehend instructions, and move their own body weight.
56
# What is... A safety system developed to minimize manual handling and reduce injury rates among healthcare workers by promoting the use of mechanical aids and safer handling techniques, introduced around 1995 by Louise O'Shay.
No-Lift System
57
Why is it important to maintain natural curves in your spine while lifting? a) To prevent injuries and maintain proper posture b) To increase the lifting capacity c) To reduce the time spent on lifting tasks d) To avoid bending at the knees
a) To prevent injuries and maintain proper posture
58
What is the legal obligation related to manual handling?
There is a legal obligation for both employers and employees to maintain safe manual handling practices.
59
Why is it important to use the bed mechanics correctly?
Correct use of bed mechanics helps in safe patient handling and avoids complications like improper mattress fitting.
60
# Define: Hover Mats
Inflatable mats that lift patients with minimal physical effort, using air pressure to create a hover effect that makes it easier to move patients. They are used in conjunction with hover jacks for efficient patient transfers.
61
What is an appropriate use for a standing machine in manual handling? a) Moving patients who cannot stand on their own b) Assisting patients who can support their own body weight c) Lifting patients from the floor d) Carrying equipment
b) Assisting patients who can support their own body weight
62
# What is... Inflatable devices with multiple chambers used to lift patients to bed height. They are inflated gradually to minimize strain on staff and ensure safe transfers. The patient must be secured with a seatbelt to prevent sliding.
Hover Jacks
63
What technique should be used for pushing or pulling rather than lifting?
Use your legs to push or pull, and avoid placing the load on your shoulders.
64
What should be avoided to prevent injury during manual handling?
Avoid unexpected, jerky movements and communicate clearly with colleagues.
65
What lifting techniques were commonly used in the past?
Techniques like the shoulder lift and the fireman’s lift were commonly used.
66
What is one key principle for manual handling involving beds?
Use the bed mechanics, such as electric adjustments, to assist with lifting, lowering, and positioning.
67
# Define: Bariatric Care
Specialized care and manual handling techniques for patients with obesity or complex care needs, involving additional considerations and safety measures due to the increased risk associated with handling larger patients.
68
What should patients be instructed to do during tasks to ensure safety?
Instruct patients to cross their arms instead of holding onto you during tasks.
69
# Define: Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs)
Systematic recommendations based on evidence that guide clinical decision-making and practice. In this context, they refer to protocols for using equipment safely.
70
# Define: No-Lift System
A safety system developed to minimize manual handling and reduce injury rates among healthcare workers by promoting the use of mechanical aids and safer handling techniques, introduced around 1995 by Louise O'Shay.
71
Why is it important to speak up about poor practices in manual handling?
Speaking up helps ensure proper techniques are used, reducing the risk of injury and maintaining safety standards.
72
# Define: Independent Patient
A patient who can follow instructions, move their own body weight, and maintain balance without requiring substantial support from healthcare staff.
73
What should be avoided in life-threatening situations to maintain safety?
Avoid rushing into situations, getting tangled in cords, or slipping on fluids to prevent additional injuries.
74
What are some common injuries that manual handling practices aim to prevent?
Common injuries include back strains, sprains, prolapses, and injuries to muscles, ligaments, discs, shoulders, neck, or arms.
75
How many staff members are typically needed to operate a hover mat and jack system?
Usually, two staff members are needed unless the patient is particularly heavy.
76
# What is... Devices designed to assist patients in standing by providing support and stability. They require the patient to be able to support some of their own weight and are used to bring patients into a standing position safely.
Standing Machines
77
What issues can arise with mattresses if not managed properly?
Problems can include improper fitting, cramming against bed rails, or puncturing, which affects patient comfort and safety.
78
# Define: Hover Jacks
Inflatable devices with multiple chambers used to lift patients to bed height. They are inflated gradually to minimize strain on staff and ensure safe transfers. The patient must be secured with a seatbelt to prevent sliding.
79
# Define: Manual Handling
The process of moving, lifting, carrying, or supporting items or people, particularly in a healthcare setting, which requires proper techniques and safety measures to prevent injury.
80
What was the core issue with the old "safe lifting" approach?
The core issue was that despite following the recommended steps, injuries from manual handling continued to occur.
81
# Define: Hospital-induced Deconditioning
The process by which patients experience physical decline due to prolonged bed rest or inactivity in a hospital setting, which is now minimized by encouraging early movement and activity post-surgery.
82
What is the purpose of overhead tracking systems in manual handling? a) To keep equipment organized b) To reduce physical strain on staff during transfers c) To increase the weight capacity of lifting devices d) To monitor patient movements
b) To reduce physical strain on staff during transfers
83
Who is responsible for safe manual handling?
Both employers and employees are responsible for safe manual handling.
84
What benefits come from complying with safe manual handling practices?
Benefits include reduced risk of injury, less fatigue, more energy, and better overall health and well-being.
85
What was the No-Lift System, and who initiated it?
The No-Lift System, initiated by Louise O'Shay around 1995, was developed to reduce injury rates among nurses and midwives.
86
What are some common minor injuries from poor manual handling practices?
Minor injuries include twinges, sprains, or strains that might be alleviated with Panadol, a heat pack, and rest.
87
# What is... Equipment used to facilitate the smooth transfer of patients by reducing friction and the need for excessive physical effort.
Slide Sheets
88
# What is... Regulations that provide specific guidelines and requirements for safe manual handling practices to prevent injury and ensure safety in the workplace.
Manual Handling Regulations of 2017
89
What are the risks of cluttered equipment storerooms?
Cluttered storerooms can lead to injuries from moving equipment, using faulty wheelchairs, or handling overloaded linen skips.
90
Why is it important to know how to use equipment properly?
Knowing how to use equipment properly ensures safety, adheres to safe operating procedures, and helps prevent injuries.
91
# What is... A legislative framework that outlines the responsibilities of employers and employees to ensure a safe working environment and protect health and safety at work.
Occupational Health and Safety Act of 2004
92
# Define: Trendelenburg Position
A position where the patient’s head is lower than their feet, often used in specific medical situations; it can be adjusted using modern bed mechanics.
93
# Define: Live Load
A term used to describe patients in a healthcare context, referring to their unpredictability and the lack of handles or support mechanisms, making them more challenging to move or lift safely.
94
Why has the focus shifted from safe lifting to manual handling?
The focus shifted because the shoulder joint is not designed to handle massive loads repetitively, especially with just one arm.
95
# Define: Overhead Tracking
A system involving tracks and lifting equipment installed above the bed to facilitate safe patient transfers and reduce physical strain on staff. It represents a modern advancement in patient handling equipment.
96
What is the purpose of a hover jack?
A hover jack inflates to lift the patient to bed height, reducing strain on staff during transfers.
97
What can happen if an employer is found not to have provided a safe working environment?
The employee may file a common law claim, which can be lengthy, stressful, and expensive.
98
How has the No-Lift System evolved over time?
There have been many variations of the system, but the core principles of reducing manual handling activities remain the same.
99
What must employers like Peninsula Health do according to the regulations?
Employers must ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, that they provide and maintain a safe working environment without risks to health.
100
When moving a patient, what is a recommended practice to avoid injury? a) Stand close to the bed with legs apart b) Keep one leg back to shift weight c) Lean over the bed and pull d) Ask the patient to hold onto you for support
b) Keep one leg back to shift weight
101
# Define: Clinical Nurse Consultant
A senior nursing professional with extensive experience who provides expert advice and support on clinical practices and health issues, often involved in training and safety management.
102
# What is... A manual handling technique involving lifting a load using the shoulder and arm, which is not recommended for frequent or heavy lifting due to the risk of injury to the shoulder joint.
Shoulder Lift
103
# What is... A system used to record and manage incidents related to occupational violence, manual handling, needle-stick injuries, and other workplace hazards.
Violence, Injury, Hazard Management System (VIHMS)
104
# Define: Fireman’s Lift
A manual handling method where a person is lifted by placing one arm under their back and the other under their knees, a technique that can put significant strain on the lifter’s back and shoulders.
105
Why is it critical to encourage patient independence and prevent hospital-induced deconditioning?
Encouraging independence and preventing deconditioning helps patients recover faster and improves their overall health.
106
What is a recommended technique for standing while moving a patient?
One leg should be back to shift your weight from front to back using your legs, rather than putting pressure on your back.
107
Why is it important to keep patient rooms tidy?
A cluttered room increases the risk of bumping into objects, knocking things over, or tripping.
108
Why is manual handling safety important for nurses and midwives?
Manual handling safety is crucial to prevent injuries that could end a nursing career prematurely.
109
What is the primary principle of safe manual handling? a) Lift as quickly as possible b) Use mechanical aids only for heavy items c) Minimize manual handling tasks whenever possible d) Rely on colleagues to help with all lifting tasks
c) Minimize manual handling tasks whenever possible
110
What should a patient be able to do to be considered independent when off the bed?
They must be able to stand unsupported and maintain their balance.
111
What does manual handling involve? a) Only lifting heavy objects b) Moving, lifting, carrying, or supporting any load c) Operating machinery d) Writing reports about equipment
b) Moving, lifting, carrying, or supporting any load
112
What advantage does overhead tracking provide in manual handling?
Overhead tracking reduces physical strain on staff while maintaining quality patient care.
113
How can adopting awkward postures during procedures lead to injuries?
Awkward postures, such as bending and twisting while holding heavy objects, can result in sprains and strains.
114
How should equipment like wheelchairs and trolleys be managed to prevent injuries? a) Use them regardless of their condition b) Ensure they are regularly checked and repaired c) Only use them if they have been recently cleaned d) Stack them in storage without inspection
b) Ensure they are regularly checked and repaired
115
Why is it important not to let patients cling to you during manual handling?
If a patient clings to you and falls, they could pull you down with them, potentially causing injury.
116
What is meant by a "live load" in manual handling?
A "live load" refers to patients, who are unpredictable and require careful handling due to the lack of handles for assistance.
117
How should you maintain your spine and posture during manual handling?
Keep natural curves in your spine and reduce shoulder abduction. Avoid overreaching and stretching.
118
Why is self-medication with painkillers and heat packs not a long-term solution for nurses?
Self-medication may manage symptoms temporarily but doesn’t address underlying issues or prevent long-term injuries.

NUR1114 Nursing (16 decks)

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