Part II: organizational components of a safe resident handling program.

While organizing a safe resident handling program and selecting appropriate handling equipment requires a commitment of time, money and resources by administration, the return on investment in terms of reducing staff injuries is significant.

Part I: Achieving safe resident handling.

An effective safe handing program can be realized by adhering to an organized clinical approach. This consists of carefully assessing resident safe handling on a regular basis and implementing interventions based on the handling needs of each resident identified.

Preventing fractures with hip protectors.

Hip protectors are an effective strategy for reducing fall-related hip fractures in long-term care settings. The success of a hip protector program is enhanced by educational activities and administrative support, and a nurse champion to assume responsibility for the hip protector program.

Preventing falls: how to identify risk factors, reduce complications.

Falls are a common problem of old age and are associated with considerable morbidity. Falling itself is not a diagnosis but a symptom of multiple underlying diseases, the effects of certain medications on homeostasis, and/or environmental hazards or obstacles that interfere with safe mobility. Preventing falls requires a systematic diagnostic approach focused on identifying and reducing risk factors.