Recommended weight limits for lifting and holding limbs in the orthopaedic practice setting.

Nurses and other caregivers face high risk for developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders while lifting and holding limbs in the orthopaedic practice setting. A task force including representatives from the National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses, American Nurses Association, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Patient Safety Center of Inquiry at the James A. Haley Veterans Administration Medical Center in Tampa, Diligent Services, and Guldmann, Inc., developed an orthopaedic clinical tool for determining maximum recommended weight limits for lifting and holding arms and legs for treatment of the orthopaedic patient. Scientific evidence, concepts of ergonomic safety, and safe patient-handling equipment were incorporated into this clinical tool.