Abstract
OBJECTIVE:: To determine the utility of a safe lifting program index and a measure of lift inventory to predict workers' compensation claim frequency and costs in long-term care facilities in 23 states. METHODS:: Workers' compensation claims and cost data were matched to Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)-certified facilities (N = 656). Facility safe lifting program index were derived from interviews with directors of nursing in a subset (N = 271). RESULTS:: The higher the safe lift index score, the lower the claims and costs. An increase of one lift per 100 residents is associated with a 5% decrease in claims frequency and an 11% decrease in total costs on average. CONCLUSION:: In this national study, we find that a comprehensive safe lift program, endorsed and promoted by directors of nursing, reduces caregiver injury as measured by workers' compensation claims frequency and costs.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 27-35 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine |
Volume | 55 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 2013 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health