What impact will mechanical lifting equipment have on resident assaults to caregivers?
Findings from a NIOSH study (Collins et al., 2004) indicated that resident assaults on caregivers decreased after the implementation of mechanical lifting equipment to lift and transfer residents. After caregivers are sufficiently trained, residents trust that caregivers can move them comfortably and safely. This may partially explain the reduction in assaults from residents. It should be noted that there are exceptions and some residents who are confused or disoriented may violently oppose being lifted with a mechanical lift (Collins et al., 2004).
