What is the most serious consequence of a poorly planned or rushed patient move?

What is the most serious consequence of a poorly planned or rushed patient move?

• A. Injury to you or your patient
• B. Delayed care
• C. Alarm to neighbors
• D. Equipment damage

Answer: (A)

Safe patient handling is essential because rushing a move or moving without a plan greatly increases the risk of harming someone during the transfer. The most serious consequence is injury to either you or the patient, since a poor technique, loss of balance, or improper alignment can produce spinal injuries, fractures, or internal damage in the patient, and strains or more serious back injuries for you. Those injuries can end a responder’s ability to continue the call and worsen the patient’s outcome, which is more critical than any delay in care, equipment damage, or making neighbors notice the event. To prevent this, use proper body mechanics, get help as needed, and employ appropriate moving devices and team coordination.

Safe patient handling is essential because rushing a move or moving without a plan greatly increases the risk of harming someone during the transfer. The most serious consequence is injury to either you or the patient, since a poor technique, loss of balance, or improper alignment can produce spinal injuries, fractures, or internal damage in the patient, and strains or more serious back injuries for you. Those injuries can end a responder’s ability to continue the call and worsen the patient’s outcome, which is more critical than any delay in care, equipment damage, or making neighbors notice the event. To prevent this, use proper body mechanics, get help as needed, and employ appropriate moving devices and team coordination.