Online Manual Handling Training

Manual Handling Training FAQ

• Have you had feedback about your manual handling training?

  Yes. At Total Health Physio we pride ourselves on delivering quality training and this is reflected in the feedback we receive from our participants.

  Recently we delivered manual handling training to a cohort of volunteers and we had really strong feedback, particularly highlighting how engaging the participants found the training to be.

  We find care staff are appreciative of this training, as it is an investment into their wellbeing and knowledge whilst performing their duties.

• What outcomes does manual handling training lead to for the facility involved?

  Manual handling training creates a safer environment for residents and for staff. It reinforces safe lifting practices, which in turn prevents workplace injuries. It also contributes to a supportive care environment for the patient.

  Manual handling training is also integral for facilities to achieve their NDIS and Aged Care Standards compliance.

  Manual handling training results in various positive outcomes. Most importantly, this improves the quality of life and independence of our patients, and also leads to a safer workplace with care staff being trained appropriately for their role.

  There is the added benefit of better staff retention and performance in their role.

  For all of these reasons, manual handling training is a very important part of residential care for staff and residents.

• What are some scenarios where family members would require manual handling support?

  There are many daily tasks family members perform for their family members, such as helping them out of bed, getting out of a chair, wheelchair, etc, these can lead to injuries for those family members.

  People in scenarios like these would benefit from professional manual handling instruction.

  Total Health Physio addresses each patient holistically, we will assist family members with manual handling if that is appropriate.

• How important is manual handling in the duties of a clinician?

  Manual handling is an essential part of therapy in the community. It plays a significant role for clinicians because it informs what we do and how we interact with our patients. It is also critical to preventing workplace injuries and accidents.

  As therapists, our role often involves transferring patients in a range of ways. Manual handling also relates to specialised equipment such as hoists or standing machines too; it becomes very important to learn about and understand how to use the equipment safely and effectively. This is particularly important for patients that are using Assistive Equipment.

• Can manual handling training help care staff with patients with complex conditions? (i.e. spinal cord injuries)

  As per the first question in this FAQ, every resident at an aged care facility will have a care plan in place. This care plan is based upon assessments to determine exactly what is required for each individual.

  An overview of the patient’s care plan is located in their room to ensure that each carer is aware of that person’s ability and mobility status.

  For example, there are patients who require hoists. In those cases, this is clearly indicated in their care plan so that any carers involved know exactly what is required to best support that person. For a patient who is non-ambulant due to a spinal cord injury, their care plan may include the requirement of either a standing or hoist machine which means they will require two people supporting them