Explaining any type of procedure or activity to patients is an integral nursing function. Our members and many nurses aides who testified before OSHA echo Dr. Owen's sentiments. Ten years ago there were similar discussions regarding the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard and more recently, about Tuberculosis. Just a few short years later, we have come to realize that the use of gloves and masks protect both health care workers and patients and that, when explained, these safety devices are found not only acceptable, but desirable on the part of patients and families. In addition, these controls help reduce the occurrence of hospital acquired infections which can greatly increase patient length of stay and increase health care costs overall.
Lifting devices use the latest technology to move patients in the simplest and safest manner.
With lifting devices we can move some of the heaviest patients easily and smoothly, which means we can move them more frequently. It also allows us to move our elderly patients more easily. Mobility is an essential factor to improve patient care. Immobility leads to complications such as pneumonia, pressure sores, and emboli, which sometimes cause a downward spiral from which the patient never recovers. Thus, when we can assist patients in moving it means fewer complications thereby decreasing lengths of stay and health care costs.