3. People as loads
When moving and handling people (patients) it's important to be sensitive towards the person and their rights to autonomy, privacy and dignity. They are not only an object to be moved.
In general we can categorise our patients into these three abilities
- Independent patients: Trying to keep people as independent as possible is very important for their health, overall well-being, strength and ability to care for themselves. You may need to support patients to re-enable them. In this case, use encouragement and reassurance along with equipment.
- Assisted patients: Need you to physically help them to move and/or use of equipment
- Dependent patients: These patients are mainly unable to help with the move.
When moving and handling a patient of any ability, the same principles should be applied:
- Keeping the person as independent as possible, enabling the person to do as much as possible for themselves.
- Ensure the person is always safe and comfortable
- Moving the person with dignity and respect.
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