A systematic review of work interventions to promote safe patient handling and movement in the healthcare sector

Abstract

Purpuse The aim of this systematic review was to describe interventions which promote safe patient handling and movement (PHM) among workers in healthcare by reviewing the literature of their effectiveness for work and health-related outcomes. Methods: Data bases were searched for studies published 1997‒2018. Measures was operationalised broadly, capturing outcomes of work and health. Only Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies with control group were included. Quality was assessed using evidence-based checklists by Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services. Results: The systematic review included 10 RCTs and 19 cohort. Providing work equipment and training workers is effective: it can increase usage. Training workers to be peer coaches is associated with fewer injuries. Other effective strategies are participatory ergonomics and management engagement in collaboration with workers, facilitating safe PHM Conclusions: This systematic review suggests interventions for safe PHM with an impact of health-related outcomes should include access to work equipment, training as well as employer and employee engagement. The additional impact of multifaceted interventions is inconclusive. Practitioner Summary: In clinical practice, there is a need for employers in healthcare to; 1) provide healthcare workers access to suitable work equipment. 2) provide training on how to use work equipment to prevent work-related injuries. Furthermore, the study also indicates that 3) training and appointing peer coaches can facilitate safe manual handling and movement (PHM) and, 4) It can be beneficial to involve workers in a participatory approach.