Effects of training in modifying working methods during common patient-handling activities

It is commonly recommended that those who must perform strenuous physical e xertions be given training in proper techniques, and that musculoskeletal r isks are thereby minimized. In the present study, the effects of training w ere examined at a behavioral level, and it was assumed that any long-term r eduction in injuries must be preceded by measurable changes in how exertion s are performed. Because of high injury incidence rates among nurses, commo n patient-handling tasks were the basis of the study. Participants performe d several such tasks and sub-groups received training that consisted of eit her a commercial video or combined lecture and practice sessions. Compared to a control group, several perceptual, postural, and biomechanical measure s were significantly altered following training. Specifically, training was associated with the adoption of a more upright lifting posture, and this c hange was retained in follow-up measures obtained after 4-6 weeks. While su bstantial inter-subject variability was present, the results suggest that t raining can modify behaviors in an intended direction. This observation pro vides support for the use of training as potential control measure? however more information is needed regarding retention and the relationship betwee n trained behaviors and long-term injury risk.