Manual handling is a crucial aspect of nursing that involves moving and assisting patients in a safe and efficient manner. With the physical demands of the job, it’s essential for nurses to receive proper training in manual handling techniques.
This article explores the importance of manual handling training, the key skills acquired during these courses, and how they enhance patient and employee safety.
The Importance of Manual Handling Training in Nursing
Manual handling & patient moving training provides nurses with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform physical tasks without risking injury to themselves or their patients.
Given the varied physical demands placed on nurses, training plays an essential role in their daily practice.
In the healthcare setting, nurses often face scenarios that require them to lift, move, or reposition patients who may be immobile or uncooperative.
This not only puts the patient at risk but can lead to serious injury for the nurse as well. Manual handling training focuses on teaching best practices to mitigate these risks.
Furthermore, many healthcare facilities have specific regulations and guidelines that require staff to be trained in manual handling.
This ensures that all personnel understand the fundamental principles of safe handling and can implement them consistently within their practice.
These requirements may include completing a manual handling practical, acquiring a manual handling certificate & completing some form of training, such as Backsafe’s Patient Moving Training.
Manual Handling Techniques for Nurses
Moreover, manual handling training also emphasises the significance of ergonomic practices in nursing.
By incorporating ergonomic principles into their daily routines, nurses can reduce the strain on their bodies, thereby minimising the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, which are prevalent in the nursing profession.
Techniques such as proper body mechanics, using assistive devices such as hoists and slide sheets, and maintaining an organised workspace can all contribute to a safer and more efficient work environment.
This not only benefits the nurses but also enhances the quality of care provided to patients, as nurses are better able to perform their duties without the hindrance of physical discomfort or injury.
Key Skills Learned in Backsafe’s Manual Handling Course
Backsafe’s online manual handling healthcare training is suitable for Registered Nurses and NDIS, Disability Care, Aged Care & Allied Health staff who are looking to get a manual handling certificate & practical examination of their skills.
Students enrolled in Backsafe’s online course can expect to develop a range of skills that are critical for their nursing and caring roles. Here are some of the key sections of this course:
- Manual Handling Facts, Stats & Definitions
- Manual Handling & Patient Moving Risk Management
- How a Manual Handling Injury Occurs
- 13 x Patient Moving Videos
- Backsafe Digital Resources
- Backsafe Competency Check – Practical check with Live Trainer
- Backsafe Quiz
- Backsafe Workbooks
By completing this course, nurses and carers will acquire the knowledge and skills required to complete safe lifting and patient moving in their workplace.
Completing a practical competency check with a live trainer, ensures they have the optimal understanding of safe manual handling techniques and are equipped to receive their certification.
If you’re a nurse or carer looking for practical manual handling training – you can complete the online course here.
How Manual Handling Courses Enhance Patient Safety
Patient safety is at the forefront of healthcare practice, and effective manual handling plays a pivotal role in achieving this.
By equipping nurses with the skills they need, manual handling courses directly contribute to a safer healthcare environment.
Improper handling techniques can lead to patient injuries, such as falls or discomfort during movement.
Training in proper techniques reduces the likelihood of these incidents occurring.
When nurses understand how to safely maneuver patients, they are less likely to make mistakes that could lead to harm.
Overall, the reduction of manual handling-related incidents not only enhances the reputation of healthcare facilities but also leads to better health outcomes for patients.
To complete a practical manual handling course for nurses, visit here or contact jane@backsafe.com.au for further information.
