Like probably most CNAs, I am continually straining my lower back at work, some of this is just the reality of the job. But there is one resident who is a constant back killer for everyone I work with. We all dread transferring this resident because they are a two person transfer but completely dead weight.
We have been given the option of using a mechanical lift if the resident is unable to bear weight, but management knows full well this resident is never able to bear any weight, ever. To my knowledge no one has ever used a lift on this resident. To even suggest it would result in a massive temper tantrum every time, and would be extremely time consuming. For the past year we have just lifted them, but now with 2 people having to quit with back problems and my back about reaching its breaking point, I personally have had enough. Neither person got any workmans comp as it was claimed they had pre existing problems or some other excuse. The problem is the CNAs wont make a stand, everyone is afraid of getting fired. One person did complain I believe and was immediately fired, over a supposedly unrelated "incident".
We have a few CNAs who try to be big tough guys and act like lifting the resident is no big deal, but Ive noticed a couple of them have been showing visible pain and even missing work. I'm wondering how I can put a stop to this. I have documented many times that resident cant bear weight but nothing is done. Most of the CNAs are with me, but its a couple of these idiots that want to be the heros that are screwing it up for the rest of us. They believe using the lift is too time consuming and isnt fair to the resident. Unfortunately these two are loved by management and one is even going to be the night shift boss when they finish their LPN soon.
We have a union but its completely worthless apparently.
Well, there's a lot to be said for holding your ground. Decide what your limits are and stick with then. It' a tough profession. Don't let bad management force you to lower your professional standards or ruin your back!
You only get one back and chronic back pain is the worst and is with you for life!
Why are you talking about being afraid and no one is willing to "take a stand"? How can you get fired for safely doing your job? Am I missing something?
Risking your back, and potentially your career, is not worth it, especially when CNAs barely make minimum wage. Make an anonymous call to state. Talk to the boss above your charge nurse. As selfish as it sounds, I'll always prioritize my own health and safety over my residents' (especially when residents are on the brink of death). Use a lift, us a 2- 3- 4-person transfer. It's great you're documenting it, but I would keep nagging about it to your charge nurse face-to-face, or even PT, until something happens.
ChowanCNA
3 Posts
Well, there's a lot to be said for holding your ground. Decide what your limits are and stick with then. It' a tough profession. Don't let bad management force you to lower your professional standards or ruin your back!