Episode 2. “The Evolution of a Lift Team”

Podcast Description:

When Lift Teams were first introduced as an alternative to the more traditional unit peer leader approach to safe patient handling, there was much resistance to it. Arguments against lift teams, such as sacrificing the backs of the few to save the backs of the many, or nurses will think it is not their job to move patients were made, and because of the name ‘Lift’ Team, there was a perception by many that the team members were more about using manual lifting techniques than technology. If it wasn’t for the research conducted by William Charney of the DOH, and early adopters such as Tampa General Hospital in Florida, this approach may never have been introduced. Over the years the Lift Team approach has evolved to one of a team of specialists, problem solvers, and educators, who provide an essential, focused approach to supporting clinical staff. As so many countries worldwide are suffering nursing shortages, we need to consider whether this approach is now coming into its own.

Podcast Guest:

Manon Labreche is a Physical therapist, certified ergonomic assessment specialist 2 and a certified posture exercise professional.  She has managed the injury prevention program at Tampa General Hospital for the past 23 years which includes office & industrial ergonomics, as well as a comprehensive SPHM program which includes an injury prevention/lift team.  This team has a high level of expertise to mobilize the most complex patients utilizing patient lift equipment. The team has received many accolades for their knowledge, expertise as well as outcomes. Since the teams introduction SPHM injuries at TGH have reduced by 77% and the cost associated to those injuries has reduced by > 90%. Ms. Labreche has published many articles on SPHM, has served on many national task forces, and she often speaks at webinars and conferences. She recently completed the IHI’s “models for improvement” course to assist with strengthening the case that SPHM programs can also lead to positive patient outcomes.

Contact Information:

mlabreche@tgh.org

Referenced articles:

Labreche M, Kim OK, Patrick K, Simon K. Progressive Mobility of Patients Supported on ECMO from Dependency to Ambulation Utilizing Safe Patient Handling Technology. Int J SPHM. June 2021, 11 (9): 90-99.