RESUMEN
This mixed-method study evaluated the efficacy of lift assist device use (Binder®, Eagle®, Maxi Air®) relative to manual lifting/care-as-usual in reducing low back muscle activity and perceived exertion during simulated patient extrication tasks. User feedback was recorded to identify factors that might influence use. Twenty paramedics performed a floor to stretcher lift, lateral transfer, and confined space extrication care-as-usual and with lift assist devices. Use of a lift assist reduced low back muscle activity during floor to stretcher and confined space tasks by 34-47%. Paramedics perceived exertion decreased from 'somewhat hard' to 'light' or 'very light' when using an assistive device. Paramedics noted that ease of use, patient comfort, task time, patient acuity, among other considerations would influence use decisions. Lift assist devices were efficacious at reducing low back muscle activity and perceived exertion during floor to stretcher and patient extrication tasks.
Asunto(s)
Dolor de la Región Lumbar , Movimiento y Levantamiento de Pacientes , Humanos , Movimiento y Levantamiento de Pacientes/instrumentación , Movimiento y Levantamiento de Pacientes/métodos , Masculino , Adulto , Femenino , Dolor de la Región Lumbar/prevención & control , Factores de Riesgo , Esfuerzo Físico/fisiología , Músculos de la Espalda/fisiología , Análisis y Desempeño de Tareas , Técnicos Medios en Salud , Dispositivos de Autoayuda , Electromiografía , Enfermedades Profesionales/prevención & control , Enfermedades Profesionales/etiología , Enfermedades Musculoesqueléticas/prevención & control , Enfermedades Musculoesqueléticas/etiología , Ergonomía , Persona de Mediana EdadRESUMEN
Due to increased work demands, personal support workers (PSWs) are experiencing more work-related injuries. However, little is known about PSW work tasks and their corresponding physical demand. The purpose of this study was to identify critical tasks that are physically demanding and completed frequently as identified by PSWs. Additionally, we identified contextual factors (i.e., environmental-, situational-, patient-related) that influenced physical demands. We surveyed 443 community-based PSWs working in Canada who rated the physical demand associated with client care tasks and identified contextual factors that can increase task specific physical demands. Transferring/repositioning patients, dressing, and bathing were perceived as most demanding. Patient weight and mobility influenced the level of physical demand required for most tasks. These data provide a foundation to develop physical employment standards and task specific education and training to prevent PSW injuries.