Proper positioning of clients: a risk for caregivers.

The primary objective of this study was to learn more about the occupational risk of client repositioning by caregivers. This study also included information on frequency demands and factors contributing to the need to reposition clients and future risk-reduction solutions and interventions. A questionnaire was administered to caregivers at 12 hospitals. Targeted groups were client care units with caregivers who are required to reposition clients in bed. The task of client repositioning presents a high frequency demand to caregivers. Some characteristics such as size and health condition made it more likely clients would require repositioning. Researchers need to study client repositioning further and look for methods that will reduce the caregiver occupational risk factors. Caregivers are seeking new devices and techniques that facilitate client repositioning and benefit both the caregiver and the client.