Copyright 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning ALL RIGHTS

Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 3

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. 4

Risk Factors • • • Poor posture Poor body mechanics Low level of fitness

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. 6

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. 7

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. 8

Most Common RMIs • Carpal tunnel syndrome • Thoracic outlet syndrome • Tendonitis Copyright

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. 10

General Principles • Make adjustments or stop if pain occurs • Use supports as

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. 12

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. 13

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. 14

Computers and Ergonomics • Impact on RMIs • Use of mouse and RMI •

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. 16

Computer Workstation Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 17

Visual Problems • Eyestrain • Headaches • Why eyes tire easier when viewing computer

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 Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 19