What type of injuries can proper lifting techniques prevent in healthcare workers?

Proper lifting techniques are crucial for preventing musculoskeletal injuries, which are among the most common workplace injuries in healthcare settings. This includes conditions such as strains, sprains, and other injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments that can occur when staff lift, lower, or move patients without following safe lifting practices. Healthcare workers often engage in repetitive lifting and transferring of patients, which places significant stress on their bodies.

By employing correct lifting techniques — such as keeping a wide base of support, using the legs for strength, maintaining proper posture, and avoiding twisting movements — healthcare professionals can minimize the risk of injury to their back and other body parts. This not only protects the workers but also enhances patient safety, as proper techniques facilitate smoother and safer transfers.

While fractures can occur from falls or accidents, they are not directly related to lifting methods, and fainting spells or heart attacks typically fall outside the scope of injury prevention through lifting techniques. Thus, the focus on musculoskeletal injuries accurately identifies the primary risk associated with improper lifting in the healthcare environment.