In an average workday, healthcare workers are required to stand or sit for long periods of time and lift heavy, cumbersome weight, often non-ambulatory patients, sometimes in awkward positions or in confined spaces such as bathrooms. As a result, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that healthcare workers have the highest rate of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of all occupations.

This series helps healthcare workers protect themselves from these injuries through an understanding of basic body mechanics, leverage, balance and the force of gravity to help move more safely, and through the use of lifting strategies and assistive devices to prevent injury.

This program demonstrates and describes the mechanics of lifting and moving weight, including using appropriate muscle groups, using the center of gravity, and balance.

After completing this course, the learner should be able to: