Proper technique is required for the transfer of patients without causing injury to the patient or the people giving assistance. OSHA has issued guidance for the transfer of patients in nursing homes to help reduce worker injuries.
NOTE: The original algorithm assumed that a full-body sling was available to lift the patient. I modified the algorithm in the event that one might not be available. In light of the zero-lift tolerance of OSHA, it may be necessary to avoid this approach.
Questions from official version:
(1) Was the patient injured?
(2) Is the patient independent?
Additional questions for modified version:
(3) Is a full-body sling lift available?
(4) body weight of the patient in kilograms
|
Injured? |
Independent? |
Lift Available? |
Transfer Method |
|
none |
yes |
NA |
caregiver assistance not needed; stand by for safety as needed |
|
none |
no |
yes |
use lift with 2 or more caregivers |
|
none |
no |
no |
use stretcher with sufficient caregivers for patient's weight |
|
minor |
yes |
NA |
caregiver assistance not needed; stand by for safety as needed |
|
minor |
no |
yes |
use lift with 2 or more caregivers |
|
minor |
no |
no |
use stretcher with sufficient caregivers for patient's weight |
|
moderate |
NA |
yes |
use lift with 2 or more caregivers; call physician for evaluation |
|
moderate |
NA |
no |
use stretcher with sufficient caregivers for patient's weight; call physician for evaluation |
|
severe |
NA |
NA |
call Emergency Squad for transfer to Emergency Department |
where:
• Any lifting from the floor entails some risk but at times it may be necessary.
• Based on other algorithms in the series, patient body weight is divided into categories of < 100 pounds, 100 – 200 pounds and > 200 pounds.
• Above 200 pounds I would look for a lift device or for some really big guys.
Purpose: To help lift a patient on the floor according to the OSHA guidelines for nursing homes.
Specialty: Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation
Objective: disability and performance, prevention, referral and transfer
ICD-10: ,
