Full transcript
0:05Do you end [music] the day feeling sore
0:07even if you spent most of it sitting in
0:09an office chair? Let's talk about
0:11ergonomics. Designing your workplace to
0:13maximize efficiency [music] and minimize
0:15injury. As MAS, we move fast, multitask
0:19[music] constantly, and interact with
0:21patients in ways that can put physical
0:23strain on the body, both our body and
0:26our patients.
0:27As medical assistants, one of our
0:29responsibilities under OSHA guidelines
0:31is to recognize hazards early and take
0:34steps to prevent injuries, particularly
0:37muscularkeeletal disorders or MSDs,
0:41which are some of the most common
0:42workplace injuries in clinical settings.
0:46Your clinical environment contains a
0:48number of ergonomic challenges. lifting
0:51supplies, adjusting exam tables,
0:53assisting with patient movement, and
0:55even performing repetitive tasks at
0:57workstations.
0:59One of the most effective ways to
1:00prevent injury is through safe patient
1:02handling and proper body mechanics.
1:06Patient handling. Safe patient handling
1:09is essential. Before helping a patient
1:12move, assess the situation. Can they
1:15help? Do you need assistance or
1:18equipment? Never rush this step.
1:22Body mechanics. When you assist or lift
1:25something heavy, use proper body
1:27mechanics.
1:28Keep a wide base of support. Bend at the
1:32knees and not at the waist. Keep the
1:35patient or item close to your center of
1:38gravity.
1:40Using lifting aids or asking a coworker
1:42for help is smart safety, not a sign of
1:44weakness. Ergonomics also applies to
1:48tasks you perform at your desk or in the
1:50exam room. Small adjustments can make a
1:53big difference over time. Keep your
1:55monitor at eye level to avoid leaning
1:58forward. When typing or documenting,
2:01keep your neck in a neutral position and
2:03your wrist straight and aligned with the
2:05keyboard to avoid repetitive strain
2:07injuries. Position supplies within easy
2:10reach so you're not repeatedly twisting
2:12your back.
2:14Even taking brief movement breaks
2:16throughout your shift helps counteract
2:18static posture. If you spot an ergonomic
2:21hazard, like a bad chair or wobbly exam
2:24table, report it immediately. Reporting
2:27prevents injuries before they happen. By
2:29using proper ergonomics, you protect
2:31your long-term health and contribute to
2:33a safer environment for everyone.