Nurses' awareness of moving and handling techniques and equipment to prevent back pain

Abstract

This study has investigated the nurses' awareness of moving and handling techniques and equipment to prevent back pain. A purposive sample of graduated nurses (n=30) was used for data collection. A questionnaire formulated by the researcher was the main source used for the collection of data. A response rate of 93.3% was obtained. Quantitative data was analyzed through the use of descriptive Statistics whilst qualitative data collected, was analyzed through content analysis. The findings indicated that nurses are aware of the existing correlation between moving and handling of patients to back pain. Whilst being aware of available equipment and proper handling procedures it was found that nurses in this study show preference towards the use of manual handling of patients, at times unnecessarily. It was also noted that nurses are fully aware of the implications of proper body allignment in preventing back pain. Nurses taking part in the study agreed that scope for continued professional development in the area exists to keep abreast with newly arising techniques and equipment. From the results a number of recommendations may be highlighted, foremost, the need of more professional training from experts in the field.