Tag: Back injury prevention

**Fact:** Up to 72% of nurses suffer from chronic low back pain, often related to manual patient handling. When lifting a patient, the nurse should? Prioritize safety by utilizing proper body mechanics and assistive devices, and by always assessing the situation first.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, patient handling poses one of the highest risks of musculoskeletal disorders for healthcare workers. When lifting a patient, your feet should be placed in a stable, staggered stance to maximize balance and power while protecting your back.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there is no specific standard setting a maximum weight limit for manual lifting. This makes the question of **how much weight can you legally lift** a common point of confusion for workers and employers alike.

Back injuries from improper lifting techniques are a leading cause of missed workdays, with over one million reported annually. When moving a heavy object, it is best to use proper body mechanics and, whenever possible, assistive devices to minimize strain and prevent injury.