Progression towards a 'no manual lifting' policy within the intensive care unit

Nurses within the critical care environment are at increased risk of back injury, due to the high dependence of the patients. A move towards a 'no manual lifting' policy is desirable to reduce the costs of staff sickness, compensation claims and to comply with new legislation. Implementation of a 'no manual lifting policy' within intensive care poses a unique challenge due to the special needs of the critically ill patient. The call has gone out to avoid all manual lifting in all but exceptional and life-threatening situations.