Pre‐procedure

ActionRationale

1. 1.Show
   Familiarize yourself with the functions of the bed or supportive surface.
   To ensure the bed or surface can be adjusted to the appropriate position (Smith [73], E).
2. 2.Show
   Ensure there is sufficient space around the bed or surface for all staff to move and position themselves freely.
   To minimize poor posture for all staff involved (Smith [73], E).
3. 3.Show
   Ensure power cables are not interfering with the work area.
   To minimize any trip hazards (HSE [36], C).

Procedure

1. 4.Show
   Ensure that the bed is at the optimum height for the staff. If two members of staff are required, try to match staff heights as far as possible. Alternatively, raise the bed to the hip or waist height of the shortest team member.
   To reduce the risk of cumulative strain and injury (Ruszala Alexander and Ruszala Alexander [66], E).
2. 5.Show
   Avoid reaching past the midline of the patient wherever it is reasonably practicable.
   To minimize overreaching and stooping and to increase comfort. To reduce the risk of cumulative strain and injury (Ruszala Alexander and Ruszala Alexander [66], E).
3. 6.Show
   Adopt a walk stance with your feet close to the supportive surface.
   To enable bodyweight transfer so as to facilitate techniques, and to maintain or improve posture (Smith [73], E).