Biomechanical evaluation and perceived exertion of a lateral patient-handling task

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Slide sheets (SS) are friction-reducing devices used during patient-handling tasks. A modified SS position (modSS), with the slider placed beneath the regular bedsheet, may decrease a caregiver’s workload and reduce low back injuries, as the SS could remain in place for longer periods of time, thus reducing patient re-positioning frequency. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of modSS use on back muscle activity, pulling force, and perceived effort during lateral patient-handling tasks, and determine whether lumbar electromyography (EMG) correlates with perceived effort (RPE) during such tasks. METHODS: Ten females completed 9 lateral patient-handling tasks with 3 simulated patients (45 kg, 68 kg and 91 kg) and 3 SS conditions (absent, normal, modSS). Outcomes included peak pulling force, back muscle EMG, RPE and subjective reports of low-back discomfort and preference. RESULTS: ModSS use was as effective as or better than normal SS use at reducing back muscle EMG, pulling force, RPE and perceived discomfort in all 9 conditions, when compared to no SS ( p< 0.05). The relationship between RPE and EMG was moderately strong (r = 0.75). CONCLUSION: ModSS use may reduce caregiver injury rates, as it reduces biomechanical and perceived demands associated with lateral patient-handling tasks at least as well as normal SS use, if not better.