Health care workers are using soaker pads to reposition (boost or turn) clients in bed, despite the risk of sustaining sprains or strains (musculoskeletal injuries). Soaker pads, also known as incontinence pads or bed pads, are designed to absorb urine to keep beds and linens dry and protect the client’s skin. A soaker pad should only be used for its intended purpose – it is not meant for repositioning clients.
There are several concerns with using soaker pads to reposition clients in bed:
©WorkSafeBC. Used with permission.
Subsection 50(2) of the OHS Act requires employers to adopt a code of practice specified by WorkSafeNB or to establish their own code of practice. Where warranted, WorkSafeNB will require workplaces to establish codes of practice to minimize the risk of injuries due to client handling [subsection 50(3)].
The client’s abilities must be assessed to determine the risk level and which controls are necessary. Using soaker pads to reposition clients increases the risk of injury to workers – and is not an appropriate control measure.
For more information, consult the Guide to Developing a Code of Practice for Client Handling, available on WorkSafeNB’s website.
April 2013