Cost Effectiveness of a Multifaceted Program for Safe Patient Handling
Abstract
Objective: The patient Safety Center in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) introduced a program aimed at reducing the incidence and severity of injury to caregivers in handling patients. The program involved an ergonomic assessment protocol, patient handling technology, decision algorithms to select equipment, and guidelines for safe patient handling. Method: An 18-month observational study measured the incidence and severity of injury to caregivers before and after the introduction of the Safe Patient Handling and Movement project. Results and conclusion: This program aided both patients and nursing personnel (registered nurses, licensed practitioner nurses, and nursing assistants). Incidence and severity of injuries to health care workers decreased, and there was general satisfaction with use of equipment by patients and patient handlers. the intervention also was cost effective. A cost-benefit analysis showed that net benefits from lowered incidence and severity of injuries and decreased workers' compensation claims was $200,000 per year. The payback period of the initial investment in patient handling equipment was 4.30 years. Policy implications are discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA434340
Entities
People
- Audrey Nelson
- Fangfei Chen
- Hope Tiesman
- Kris Siddharthan
Organizations
- United States Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality