Authors (including presenting author) :
LAU MHL(1), CHOW FK(2), LEUNG KKL(1), CHAN AMS(2), CHEUNG MHH(1), TING KH(2), CHAU RMW(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Physiotherapy Department, Kowloon Hospital
(2)Rehabilitation Department, Kowloon Hospital
Introduction :
As a responsible organization, the Hospital Authority persistently takes a proactive role in developing a safe working environment by providing structured occupational safety and health training. Manual Handling Operation(MHO) is one of the primary job components which accounted for ~16%(554 staff) of Injury-on-Duty(IOD) cases within HA in 2019 which could result in decreased manpower or restricted work duty. With the swift expansion of aging population, there is an increased demand for healthcare workers in rehabilitation unit. More clinical attention is required due to an increased number of confused and dependent patients which could result in numerous repeated awkward MHO positions during the daily routine and leads to MHO related injuries. Therefore, a practical MHO educational program for colleagues in rehabilitation unit is essential to minimize the risks and injuries in the specific setting.
Objectives :
The project aims to encourage safe MHO practice for healthcare workers in KH rehabilitation ward.
Methodology :
In Kowloon Hospital(KH)(2020), MHO accounted for ~18% of IOD cases which approximately two-thirds involved nursing and clinical supporting staff. Conventional MHO training program is provided to new staff routinely during orientation including corporate MHO training video yet lacking specificity to work environment in ward setting. In collaboration with the Rehabilitation Department, the Physiotherapy Department customized and contextualized the training for nurses and clinical supporting staff to tackle the MHO-related obstacles in their specific routine work.
1. Tailor-made Ward-Based MHO training video
A tailor-made MHO training video was produced with the participation of staff from both physiotherapists and ward. Repeated patient handling activities like patient transfer and napkins changing were rectified to prevent repetitive stress conditions from improper postures.
2. Small Class Ward-based MHO training
Ward-based MHO training was delivered to staff which aimed to illustrate the principles of MHO, and common injury risk and hazards. The small class sized training was conducted for facilitation of questions and clarifications. Appropriate stretching exercises were also taught to prevent MHO related musculoskeletal disorders.
3. Ward-Based Two-way Practical Workshop
Repeated small groups two-way practical workshops were conducted in ward to provide hands-on MHO experience regarding to the contextual ward activities. With concurrent feedback from participants, practical skills were discussed and reinforced with the sharing of bodily mechanics to minimize staff MHO-related injuries, and promote safe maneuver on frail dependent patients.
Result & Outcome :
The contextual and customized MHO training for rehabilitation ward colleagues was shown to be effective in participation and engagement reflected in satisfaction survey. All participants(n=55) agreed that the program enriched their MHO knowledge, improved postural self-awareness, and increased work efficiency in ward setting.
