Policy Development
Next, you will need to develop a policy on safe patient handling based on the model adopted and then make a case for administration. Make sure the policy promotes a culture of safety.
Sample Policy
XYZ Health System facilitates a culture of safety by providing patient handling equipment, program elements to support the use of equipment, employee training and the infrastructure to support the Safe Patient Handling program.
- Staff will use mechanical lift equipment and other approved handling aids to prevent and/or augment manual lifting and movement of patients when the load is greater than 35lbs, except when absolutely necessary, such as in a medical emergency.
- All staff who may be required to physically move, transfer or reposition patients will be trained in the use of mechanical lifting devices and other approved patient handling aids. Such devices and aides must be used in accordance with instructions and training.
- It is the duty of employees to take reasonable care of their own health and safety, as well as that of their co-workers and their patients during patient handling activities by following this policy. Non-compliance will indicate a need for retraining. Repeated non compliance with this policy will result in corrective action, up to and including termination. (Adapted from WSHA)
Once the data is analyzed, an executive summary and report need to be prepared for administrative review. The report should include:
- cost justification (i.e., return on investment)
- implementation plan
- staffing requirements needed for the program
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-4. An effective safe handling program policy should include language that helps the employer promote _____.
- a tough-controlling management style
- a culture of safety
- fewer OSHA inspections and investigations
- strict enforcement of lifting rules
You forgot to answer the question!