World Safety Journal

Nurses suffer a disproportionate risk for musculoskeletal injury compared to most other professions. Injury rates are far above the national average and may result in lost time from work, pain and suffering and is likely to shorten the working life of many nurses. Most nursing programs do not teach ergonomic principles and safe patient handling as part of the academic curriculum. The Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) tool was developed by ergonomists for use in the healthcare industry. This pilot study evaluated the risk for musculoskeletal injury during two lifts using REBA, one without a mechanical lift system and one with. Findings suggest that risk increased when using the mechanical lift system. We recommend evidence-based training for all nurses on patient transfer methods and use of all mechanical lift systems.