An Ergonomic Protocol for Patient Transfer That Can Be Successfully Taught Using Simulation Methods

Abstract Introduction Nursing personnel injury related to patient transfer is epidemic, and reduction of injury rates is a national priority. Hierarchical task analysis (HTA) was chosen to address this issue. Method HTA methods were used to create an optimum task set and protocol which consisted of Internet-based education, simulation practice, and debriefing. Participants ( N = 71) were randomly assigned to teams to perform simulated transfers. Pre- to postintervention transfer success was evaluated by ergonomic experts. Results Each team improved significantly from pre- to postintervention ( N = 19), with every protocol step demonstrating improvement ( N = 10). Interrater reliability of the evaluation instrument was calculated (.43–.83). Conclusion Simulation was used successfully to improve transfer success. This approach shows promise in reduction of transfer-related nursing injury.