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773 Preventing MSDs in Healthcare
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Patient Lifting Analysis

An analysis of any patient lifting and repositioning task involves an assessment of the needs and abilities of the patient involved. This assessment allows staff members to account for specific characteristics while determining the safest methods for performing the task. Such assessments typically consider the patient's safety, dignity and other rights, as well as the need to maintain or restore a patient's functional abilities.

The assessment should include examination of factors such as:

  • level of assistance the patient requires
  • size and weight of the patient
  • ability and willingness of the patient to understand and cooperate
  • medical conditions that may influence the choice of methods for lifting or repositioning

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-2. The _____ and _____ of a patient could determine which equipment is needed to move or lift a patient.