What should employees do to minimize the risks of lifting and transferring patients? Select all that apply.

Answer

To minimize the risks of injury when lifting and transferring patients, healthcare workers should adopt several best practices. First, using available ergonomic assistive devices (such as mechanical lifts and transfer boards) greatly reduces manual strain and prevents injury. Second, explaining planned lifting procedures to patients helps them understand what to expect, encourages their cooperation, and ensures safety during the move. Third, using proper body mechanics (like keeping a wide base of support, bending at the knees, and keeping the load close to the body) protects the caregiver's back and muscles. On the other hand, relying solely on their own strength to move patients is unsafe and goes against ergonomic guidelines, as it significantly increases the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.