Evaluation of moving and handling training for pre-registration nurses and its application to practice

This paper describes preliminary questionnaire survey work in a research programme exploring M&H training for student nurses (n=106) and its application to practice. The aim of the study was to provide evidence of the students' experiences of M&H in the clinical setting to inform future educational development. The students were able to distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable practice they observed. Good practice comprised planning and coordination within the nursing team and careful reassurance of the patient. Regarding poor practice, the students identified that equipment was unavailable or not used and that staff demonstrated poor posture in this work or used condemned techniques thought to be detrimental to the staff and the patients. Fewer students had observed: risk assessments, equipment safety checks and use of a hoist for lifting fallen patients, than had seen other accepted M&H procedures. Contrary to the Manual Handling Operations Regulations (HSE. 1992; 1998. Manual Handling Operations Regulations. HMSO, London.) and hospital 'no-lifting' policies, 71% of the respondents had been asked to participate in a manoeuvre that they thought was wrong and a similar number had been asked to physically lift patients without using recommended equipment. Perceived injuries to both staff and patients were also described.