Problems and Solutions for Other Activities
Some reports indicate a significant number of work-related MSDs in the healthcare facility occur in activities other than resident lifting.
Here are some activities the caregiver may want to review:
- bending to make a bed or feed a patient
- lifting food trays above shoulder level or below knee level
- collecting waste
- pushing heavy carts
- lifting and carrying when receiving and stocking supplies
- bending and manually cranking an adjustable bed
- removing laundry from washing machines and dryers
Granted, these tasks may not present problems in all circumstances. However, to reduce the likelihood of an employee injury while performing a task, employers should conduct a job hazard analysis (JHA). The JHA can uncover hazards and devise solutions to make the task safer in terms of duration, frequency, forceful exertions, repetitive motions, and awkward postures.
Let's take a closer look at some examples of possible solutions for activities other than lifting and repositioning.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-1. To reduce the likelihood of an employee injury while performing a task, employers should _____.
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