Role of Structured Safe Patient Handling Training for New-Hire Nursing Staff on Reducing Musculoskeletal Injuries, Staff Empowerment, and Knowledge Translation

Even amid a pandemic, training new and existing personnel on safe patient handling practices is essential to all personnel’s well-being, inclusive of patients. Such preventative measures consider the implications of what can ensue if employees are not appropriately trained to maneuver patients and utilize equipment. Data indicates that the monetary outlay for workforce-related injuries is significant. This article serves as an introduction to implementing a safe patient handling orientation training program at a large healthcare network. It draws on critical stakeholders’ experience—both internally and externally—to provide a comprehensive and enlightening safe patient handling and mobility (SPHM) program. The article further includes fundamental tips to ensure a safe training program that complies with social distancing and infection control protocols for all those involved so that the safe patient handling program remains sustainable during such critical times. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most commonly cited injuries amongst nurses. Often these injuries can be severely debilitating or career-ending.

Roy A, Joseph Y, Bannan K

Keywords: safe patient handling, staff training and education, COVID-19