Striving for service quality and promoting continuous improvement, Chung Wah Community Care (Chung Wah CC) regularly holds online and face-to-face training for our staff and support workers. For example, last week, Chung Wah CC arranged a Manual Handling training session for support workers who care for consumers with limited mobility. Apart from the dedication of our staff, it is also essential to ensure that they are aware of their potential occupational hazards and health risks, so they can protect themselves at work.
When caring for seniors with limited mobility, it is important to:
1. identify possible risks that may lead to injury;
2. assess individual risk factors; and
3. implement appropriate preventive and protective measures to eliminate or reduce risks.
General manual handling operations in aged care range from:
1. Daily household chores, such as changing bed sheets for low-level beds, moving heavy objects, handling household hygiene products and cleaning, etc.;
2. Transferring seniors with disability, such as moving a consumer from bed to chair or vice versa, helping to get on and off the wheelchair, and accompanying them to the bathroom or shower;
3. Assisting the consumer in getting on and off the vehicle and handling wheelchairs or other walking aids;
4. Operating hoist equipment.
Common hazards associated with manual handling operations include:
1. Pushing or pulling to adjust the senior to a more comfortable position on the bed;
2. Lifting heavy objects;
3. Leaning over to hold the consumer for long periods of time;
4. Transferring the consumer up and down the stairs;
5. Lifting the consumer from the ground;
6. Lifting a senior with disability in and out of the vehicle;
7. Keeping the consumer upright when changing clothes.
The instructor explained and demonstrated various protective measures in detail. Our Chung Wah CC support worker also acquired much relevant new knowledge and skills through theory and practice.
Chung Wah has been servicing the WA community since 1909, dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, Chung Wah CC has over 35 years of professional care experience helping seniors and people with disability improve their well-being and better integrate into the community. In 2023, we're promoting our theme, Embrace, Elevate & Flourish, and build a better community for all.
