Working in healthcare is physically and mentally demanding, and care home nurses may often bear the brunt of it. Every day, they lift, move, and reposition residents—tasks that place significant strain on their bodies.
Over time, this repeated stress can lead to musculoskeletal injuries (MSDs) such as back pain, torn ligaments, strained muscles, and even herniated discs.
The reality of workplace injuries in healthcare:
In the United States, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published that healthcare workers experience MSDs at higher rates than those in construction and other physically demanding jobs – these injuries are largely due to the handling of larger and heavy individuals, which is intensified by the obesity epidemic in the US. [2].
While obesity is also prevalent in New Zealand, lifting-related injuries in the healthcare sector are not specifically attributed to it in reporting. However, given that New Zealand has the third-highest obesity rate in the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development), which continues to climb, it is important to remain aware of this issue. [3].
In 2022, WorkSafe NZ and ACC reported 627 individuals in the healthcare and assistance sector sustained muscular stress injuries caused by lifting and carrying, resulting in more than a week off work. [4].
Injuries don’t just affect caregivers—they impact the entire healthcare system.
High rates of pain and injury among nurses contribute to absence, staffing shortages, and high turnover, putting additional strain on already stretched healthcare teams. [5].
In New Zealand, the cost of replacing a registered nurse is approximately half of an average nurse’s salary, with the greatest expenses linked to temporary cover, training, and lost productivity (North et al., 2013). [6]. Replacements are not always as efficient as regular staff, nor do they always have the same patient knowledge or, in some cases, the crucial connection with residents that is essential for high-care considerations.
While injuries can’t be entirely eliminated, a study by ACC reported that facilities implementing proper moving and handling training, along with the right equipment, can significantly reduce both staff and resident injuries. Additionally, these measures lead to financial savings through lower injury-related costs, reduced staff absence, and decreased turnover. [5].
A safer solution:
The Mangar eagle cushion (Emergency AGile Lifting Equipment)
Care home nurses need solutions that protect their health while ensuring residents receive the best care possible. The Mangar Eagle Cushion offers a safe and efficient lifting solution for non-injured fallers - especially for frail elderly residents with delicate skin prone to tearing and bruising. By eliminating the need for manual lifting, it helps prevent injuries for both caregivers and residents.
Investing in lifting equipment like the Mangar eagle cushion isn’t just about reducing injuries—it’s about protecting the well-being of care home nurses, improving staff retention, and ensuring that residents receive safe and effective care.
If you have any questions about our safe lifting solutions, please speak to our team – we’re happy to help!
Sources and additional resource references:
15 Nov 2024
How to reduce post-fall syndrome
Falls are a major risk for older adults. Inflatable lifting devices offer safe, quick assistance, restoring confidence and reducing health complications.
29 Jan 2025
6 considerations on how to manage resident falls
Falls in the elderly are common. Clear protocols for safe lifting reduce risks, improve outcomes, and prevent delays.
15 Nov 2024
How to reduce post-fall syndrome
Falls are a major risk for older adults. Inflatable lifting devices offer safe, quick assistance, restoring confidence and reducing health complications.
29 Jan 2025
6 considerations on how to manage resident falls
Falls in the elderly are common. Clear protocols for safe lifting reduce risks, improve outcomes, and prevent delays.