Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.1
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4 Importance of Prevention Health care workers are prone to injury Injuries usually due to poor practice As one ages, risks increase
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.5 Risk Factors Poor posture Poor body mechanics Low level of fitness Obesity Stress –Mechanical and psychological
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.6 Best Preventive Practices Good posture Exercise regularly Stretch for flexibility Good nutrition habits prevent weight gain Adopt good lifestyle habits to reduce stress
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.7 Definitions Body mechanics –Correct positioning for a given task Ergonomics –Science of designing and arranging work and living environments –Maximize efficiency and health and safety
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.8 Repetitive Motion Injuries Also referred to as RMI Overuse of one body part places stress on tendons, nerves, or joints Causes inflammation, swelling, and pain
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.9 Most Common RMIs Carpal tunnel syndrome Thoracic outlet syndrome Tendonitis
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.10 General Principles Maintain three normal curves of back Warm up and stretch before and after activities Use largest joints and muscles Avoid static positions
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.11 General Principles Make adjustments or stop if pain occurs Use supports as recommended Seek treatment early
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.12 Body Mechanics Proper mechanics while sitting Proper mechanics while standing and walking Proper mechanics while lifting OSHA statement on back belts
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.13 Back Belts—Pro Increases intra-abdominal pressure to support muscles during lifting Warm muscles of abdomen and back to increase flexibility Serves as a reminder to follow proper body mechanics
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.14 Back Belts—Con Increases blood and pelvic pressures that could cause cardiac problems Heat rashes Improper fit can cause pain and injuries False sense of security
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.15 Computers and Ergonomics Impact on RMIs Use of mouse and RMI How to decrease RMIs from use of mouse
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.16 Computer Exercises Make fist, open hands, spread fingers Interlace fingers, extend arms Rotate head Shrug shoulders and then relax Place arm on other shoulder and turn head to opposite shoulder
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.17 Computer Workstation
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.18 Visual Problems Eyestrain Headaches Why eyes tire easier when viewing computer
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.19 Prevent Eyestrain Look away from computer Rest eyes every 20 to 30 minutes Adjust contrast on computer Keep computer screen clean Avoid glare on screen Use paper holder