Effects of training and experience on patient transfer biomechanics

Abstract

Nursing is one of the professions at highest risk for the development of low back disorders, with patient handling identified as a leading contributor. The purpose of this study was to assess a component of the Back Injury Prevention Program (BIPP) that provided direct instruction on patient handling technique. Trunk kinematics and muscle activities were collected as indicators of low back loading. Novice participants (before and after instruction) and experienced nurses (previously trained) were monitored while they performed three selected patient transfers. Following BIPP instruction, muscle activity in novice participants was reduced by up to 18.1% MVE. Trained novices and nurses had generally smaller thoracolumbar spine angles by approximately 12° with lower variability in spine angle. Nurses had a smaller range of spine motion than novices combined with higher trapezius and deltoid activities, which may be a load reduction strategy for the back. The BIPP patient transfer instruction provided improved thoracolumbar biomechanics for new trainees and experienced nurses. Relevance to industry Mechanical lifts are not viable in all hospital or home care settings, thus manual patient handling training is still a necessary and important facet of initial and continuing nursing education. Back education and patient handling instruction provides a cost effective prevention strategy in nursing.