Whether you’re a patient or a caregiver, Safe Patient Handling (SPH) plays a significant role in your health and well-being. Not knowing how to correctly move or reposition a patient can lead to sprains, strains, back pain, and musculoskeletal disorders—all of which could cause long-term discomfort and repercussions.
There are several key factors that contribute to Safe Patient Handling. First, the patient's condition must be made clear; whether they cannot assist, partially assist, bear full weight, etc. This normally determines how much weight will be placed on the caregiver during the move or repositioning. Secondly, the task at hand –moving up in bed, transferring from car to chair, transferring laterally—outlines a clear expectation for both patient and caregiver. Lastly, the patient condition and situation are combined to produce the appropriate lifting device for a safe transfer.
The infographic below is a clear, visual guide to Safe Patient Handling. To ensure this information is readily available in a time of need, use this chart as a learning tool in your healthcare facility or home care plan.
(Click on the infographic below to enlarge.)
Safe Patient Handling Infographic