Injuries
When
moving and assisting an individual, there are lots of risks that impact on
health and safety. The individual could be injured if you don’t follow approved
techniques. These are some examples…
Bruises
-Cuts or
lacerations
-Fractures
or broken bones
-Friction
-Joint
Damage
-Concussion
-Slips,
trips and falls are a major cause of injuries.
-Falls
can result in any or a combination of the injuries already described.
Resistance
from a person who does not co-operate with you during a manoeuvre will increase
the risk of injury to that person and to you. Individuals
with pre-existing conditions; such as: arthritis, brittle bone disease,
cellulitis; or injuries from trauma, will need to be treated with extra care as
certain parts (if not all) of their body will be tender and painful when you
touch them.
The
overweight population in the UK is growing and this group of people use health
and social care services in higher proportions to people who are considered a
normal weight. For people who are overweight or heavy, the will risks are
likely to be higher. It is essential that risk assessments are up to date,
equipment used is appropriate to the weight and the people supporting the move
are competent and capable.
Independent
Living
Provide
information about Bariatric Transfers and Manual Handling as well as links to
specialist equipment. Visit their website, using the blue button, for more
info.
An
individual is likely to experience emotional and psychological trauma if their
dignity is not maintained, for example, having parts of their body exposed. Remember
to take care to maintain the dignity for a person who is being moved or
supported to move.
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