Back injury prevention  guide for health care providers

This booklet is designed to provide general guidance for employers and employees about how to prevent back injury as a result of lifting and moving patients and residents. It may be useful in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, board and care homes, and during the provision of home health care. Some of the benefits of back injury prevention include decreased injuries and costs, as well as increased efficiency and employee morale. The practical suggestions in this guide are focused on orderlies, attendants, nurses, nursing assistants and others who actually lift and move patients and residents. The information was developed with the help of individuals and institutions in the health care field who have found effective ways to prevent back injuries.