A nurse’s back is his/her most used tool. If you end up with an injury or a strain, it will make it almost impossible to do your job and take care of others.
We push, pull, lift, turn all day long. Â It’s important to maintain good back safety. Â Back injuries are very prevalent in the nursing field. Â In the latest study that I can find, the Bureau of Labor Statistics states the following:
In all industries combined, 1998 injury data shows that nearly 12 out of 100 nurses in hospitals and 17.3 out of 100 nurses working in nursing homes report work-related musculoskeletal injuries, including back injuries, which is about double the rate for all industries combined.
It’s important as a nurse to remember to take care of your back. Â Here are a few reminders of ways to help prevent back injuries.
- Before you lift, turn, or transfer a patient, think through the task. Â Do you need assistance? Is there equipment that will help? Â Are you able to maintain both your own safety as well as the patient’s safety?
- Utilize proper lifting techniques. Â We have all been taught safe lifting techniques; use them.
- Use assistive equipment when it’s available. Â It may take more time, but your health and safety are worth it.
- Ask for assistance from your co-workers to turn, transfer, etc. Â In addition to asking for assistance, be willing to assist your co-workers when they ask.
- Perform regular back exercises for good back health.