Repositioning patients in chairs-an improved method

Proper seated posture is important in health care settings because immobilized patients may be sitting for extended periods. In many situations, a caregiver is required to assist a slouching patient to a proper, more comfortable upright posture. The caregiver is at risk from exposure to the physical demands of this task. This study evaluated exertion and risk to the caregiver using three methods of repositioning patients in chairs in the health care setting. Through application of a new method employing an ergonomically designed device, exertion and risk were reduced. Results from this study indicate that the high-risk occupational activity of repositioning a slouching patient in a chair can be made safer for caregivers.