Case Studies
Implementation of a Safe Patient Handling Program
A Safe Patient Handling program (SPH) was initiated in 2006. A SPH vendor was chosen based upon employee product trial, evidence-based research with documented success rates, clinical support and the guarantee of a ROI of 60 percent reduction in employee injuries.
A Safe Patient Handling program (SPH) was initiated in 2006. A SPH vendor was chosen based upon employee product trial, evidence-based research with documented success rates, clinical support and the guarantee of a ROI of 60 percent reduction in employee injuries.
A vendor-driven house-wide assessment was done to make recommendations regarding equipment purchases to ensure that patient care areas were given the right equipment for their patients.
Equipment was purchased and staff training took place January–April 2007. The program officially started May 1, 2007.
The ROI has surpassed the projected 60 percent reduction in employee incidents. Patient events of skin sheering and pressure ulcers were significantly improved, resulting in data below the national average.
This case study is part of the Illinois Hospital Association's annual quality awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These hospitals are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim--improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction); improving the health of populations; and reducing the per capita cost of health care.
Award recipients achieve measurable and meaningful progress in providing care that is:
- Safe
- Timely
- Effective
- Efficient
- Equitable
- Patient-centered