IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Turning patients with and without the use of a quilted sheet. Spinal column loads and energy expenditures

Abstract

Workers moving patients are particularly apt to develop back injuries, and turning patients in their beds is a major cause of accidents.

The tasks involved in different patient-turning procedures were analyzed through on-site observation and laboratory measurements.

The maintenance of balance is an important determinant of the effort expended and the choice of procedure. In addition, the separation of the operation into sub-tasks is a useful strategy.

Further research should examine elements such as the weight-transfer method recommended in training sessions. The methodology developed in this project was applied in another IRSST project (RS-87-38), concerning the handling and placement of food products in warehouses. The results of this project have been included in the training material offered by the Association sectorielle de la santé et de la sécurité des affaires sociales (Social Affairs Sectorial Occupational Health and Safety Association).

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0084-0020
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 1987
Team:
  • Micheline Gagnon (Université de Montréal)
  • Monique Lortie (Polytechnique Montréal)