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774 Safe Patient Handling Program
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Cincinnati Children's Hospital

Even though most of its work is in pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital realized the need for lift equipment as part of its safe patient handling program. Many young patients exceed the recommended 35-pound weight limit for manual lifting. In addition, Cincinnati Children's sees adult patients who are receiving continuing care for pediatric conditions.

Cincinnati Children's policy states that employees may not lift patients without mechanical assistance. Algorithms help determine which equipment and tools to use and when to use them. Ceiling lifts are installed in nearly every patient room; additionally a two-person lift team is available with portable equipment and a variety of slings. Nearly all floor staff are trained on how to use the lifts in their units. The hospital expects to see a nearly five-fold return on its investment in lifting equipment within five years.