Safe Patient Handling and Mobility

The Safe Patient Handling and Mobility (SPHM) Standards were published in 2013 to fulfill a need for national guidelines to reduce the risks of injuries and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of healthcare workers. Significant strides have been made in SPHM research, education, training, and advocacy, since the first edition of the Standards. But patient handling and mobility-related injury rates have not been reduced significantly. This means that our work is not done. One goal of the 2nd Edition is to communicate the continued need for standardized SPHM programs and resources and re-ignite SPHM discussions and improvements. There are eight overarching standards featured in the book, each one outlined and explained in detail:Culture of SafetySustainable SPHM ProgramErgonomic Design PrinciplesSPHM TechnologyEducation, Training, and Maintaining CompetencePatient-Centered AssessmentReasonable Accommodation and Post-Injury Return to WorkComprehensive Evaluation SystemNurses and all other healthcare workers must continue to use technology, do research, and discover new and unique ways to promote the value of SPHM to keep themselves and their patients safe.