Adviser Spring 2017 Vol 1 | Page 7

The Benefits of ... • • (Continued from page 5) Hazard assessment: Address high-risk units, areas and patient-handling tasks. Hazard evaluation should consider factors such as types of nursing units, the physical environment of patient care areas, and existing equipment and its utilization. It is important to consider characteristics of the patient population such as level of patient mobility and cognition. Technology and prevention through design: Implement methods to control hazards such as lifting, transferring and repositioning patients. Manual lifting should be minimized in all cases and eliminated when feasible. For example, a “zero lift” program or policy minimizes direct patient lifting by using specialized lifting equipment and transfer tools. Establish safe patient handling policies that are based on patients’ physical and medical conditions and the availability of lifting equipment and lift teams. Select appropriate lifting equipment in accordance with the hazard assessment, and install and maintain lifting devices according to manufacturer recommendations. The best proactive approach is through proper design of the work environment, including incorporating health hazard controls into the design of facilities during construction and remodeling. • • Education and training: Provide sufficient education and training so that each worker understands the elements of the safe patient handling program and how to participate. The education and training of health care workers should be geared toward the assessment of hazards, selection and use of appropriate patient lifting equipment and devices, and review of evidence-based practices for safe patient handling. Training should include when and how to report injuries. Regular evaluation: Regular program evaluation within the environment of care is critical to the success of the program. Establish evaluation procedures necessary to assess the effectiveness of the safe patient handling program and to ensure its continuous improvement and long-term success. Credible data sources, including the OSHA Recordkeeping Log 300 and forms 301 and 300A, can be used to track and analyze injuries and trends related to the ongoing implementation of the program. Lastly, effective 10/1/17, you can qualify for up to a 2.5 percent credit on your workers’ compensation premium for implementing a safe patient handling program. If you need help implementing a program, call John Snow at Cool Insuring: 800 233-0115 or email: [email protected]. Provided by Cool Insuring Agency, Inc. This Is Cool is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice. © 2015 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved. You can rely on HealthPRO’s reform expertise to enhance your market position Preferred Partner A partnership with us means solutions are custom-tailored to your needs. Our approach to rehab management is truly unique – driven by: • • • • • • Flexible service models (in-house & outsourced) Health care reform expertise & targeted programming Clinical outcomes Unmatched compliance depth of experience Sophisticated use of technology Broad clinical reimbursement knowledge Consider HealthPRO ® as your partner. 860.480.5369 • msaunders @ healthpro-rehab.com healthpro-rehab.com leadingageny.org 6