Background: This study investigated the effects of 3 different types of slide sheets upon hand forces while sliding a patient up in bed.
Methods: The sheets used included the reusable Arjo Maxislide, the McAuley disposable sheet, and a standard cotton sheet. Hand forces were measured from 38 male and female participants as they slid a 'patient' up in bed. A repeated measures ANOVA with 5 levels to the repeated factor (number of sheets and sheet type) was used, along with post-hoc repeated measures contrasts to compare differences between each condition.
Results: A significant reduction in required force occurred when using the friction reducing sheets as compared to the cotton sheets when used according to manufacturer recommendations, as well as a reduction in one of the single friction reducing sheet categories compared to the cotton. However, it is important to note that there was still substantial force being placed on the participants.
Conclusions: This study illustrates the importance of using friction reducing slide sheets while engaging in manual patient handling. Future research should investigate the forces involved with other friction reducing materials and methods as well as the possibility of combining said materials and methods.
Keywords: Friction; body mechanics; hospital; nursing staff; sheets.