ERGONOMIC LIFTING Plan your lift before starting the action. Is it too heavy for one person? Position your body close to the object being lifted – feet shoulder-width apart. Bend at your knees using a squatting motion. Use your legs to lift while keeping the item close to your body. While handling patients, utilize proper assist devices and equipment whenever possible e.g. mechanical lift equipment, shower chairs, sliding boards, gait belts with handles, wheelchairs, repositioning devices, etc. CHARTING/OFFICE WORKSTATION Sitting at a computer while charting or doing other work can be a strain factor on your back, wrists, fingers, feet, eyes, and other body parts. Implementing ergonomics in healthcare can help here as well. 1. Utilize the chair’s armrests while sitting to prevent the chair from moving. Sit as far back in the chair as you can. 2. Maintain good posture – Ears, shoulders, and hips should line up vertically using the chair support. 3. Keep the computer monitor between eye level and a 30-degree downward position. 4. Elbows should bend at about a 90-degree angle when using the mouse and keyboard. 5. Be aware of the edge of the desk or other sharp objects poking into your body. 6. Keep your knees bent at a 90-degree angle and feet supported on the floor. 7. Be sure to have an adjustable chair. PUSHING/PULLING TECHNIQUES When moving carts or other items, try to be aware of some ergonomics training guidelines: 1. Using two hands when possible is better than using one. 2. Heavy items should be easy to reach – as well as items that are often used. 3. Maintain a balance of loads. 4. Pushing is easier than pulling. 5. Push at waist level – pull at thigh level. Recognizing Musculoskeletal Disorder symptoms, reducing risk factors and taking precautionary measures will get you on a path to better health.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi | October 2023
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