Proper Back Care for Healthcare Workers

spinal stenosis

If you are a nurse or caregiver, then you know the importance of protecting both yourself and your patient when you are working. However, many healthcare professionals get back injuries or strains when they are transferring patients, lifting equipment or moving supplies, and some patients are injured as well. This is why it is extremely important that you use every precaution necessary to protect everyone involved.

Follow Guidelines

If you work for a healthcare facility, make sure that you follow all guidelines that they have in place about transferring patients. This may mean that you need to have several nurses on hand to help move the patient, or it may require you to use a patient lift. Patient lifts will take the strain off of you and the patient, which keeps everyone safer, while extra hands will make sure that help is available in case of an accident. In addition to protecting you from injury, following the guidelines will protect you from any legal ramifications if an accident occurs.

Wear the Proper Equipment

No matter what type of work you do, it is vital that you wear the proper shoes. This is especially important when you are working in the healthcare industry. Since you are on your feet all day, you are more susceptible to injuries. A good pair of shoes will keep your muscles and joints healthy so that you are less likely to pull or strain a muscle.

If you will be lifting patients or heavy equipment, you need to wear a back brace. This will help you remember how to bend properly and to lift using your legs.

Change Position Often

As you are working with patients, make sure that you change your position often. Don't hunch over a patient's bed for several minutes without standing up straight, as this could cause the muscles in your neck, back and shoulders to become bunched up. Keep your movements varied, and avoid repetitive movements, which will overwork your muscles.

Outside of the Workplace

When you get off work, it is still important that you take care of your back. Take a long, hot bath to soothe away the strain of the day. Visit a chiropractor if necessary, which will help to alleviate any strains or knots that you may have. You should also indulge in an occasional massage to pamper your back and should muscles.

Your back is a very important part of your job, so you should protect it while you are working and at home. By taking these precautions, you will be less likely to suffer back injuries so that you can continue to work and do the things you love.