Properly pushing/pulling beds and equipment?

[Pose]

Hello everyone,

I just started working on the unit (finally finished with hospital-orientation!) So far, I've been happy to see there's not really any lifting in the Emergency Department, but mostly only sliding patients from bed-to-bed. One thing I have noticed, however, is that beds are heavy! I'm young, and I have a bad back as it is (2 bulging/slightly herniated discs.)

I was wondering if there is a "proper" way to push a bed--from a body mechanics point of view. I've also received no training in walking with people (that need assistance), but that may come later, I'm not sure.

Please discuss!

--Pose

[UM Review RN, ASN, RN]

Hello everyone,

I just started working on the unit (finally finished with hospital-orientation!) So far, I've been happy to see there's not really any lifting in the Emergency Department, but mostly only sliding patients from bed-to-bed. One thing I have noticed, however, is that beds are heavy! I'm young, and I have a bad back as it is (2 bulging/slightly herniated discs.)

I was wondering if there is a "proper" way to push a bed--from a body mechanics point of view. I've also received no training in walking with people (that need assistance), but that may come later, I'm not sure.

Please discuss!

--Pose

I'd recommend:

Put the siderails up and caution patient about keeping hands in,

bring the bed up to a good working height for you,

take off the brakes on all four wheels,

then one person pushes and the other person does not pull much as she steers the bed.

[Pose]

Thanks for the advice! I'll definitely bring the bed up to my level. I see many nurses and techs bending down pushing the bed.