When a certified nursing assistant uses a Hoyer Lift with a patient who is considered bariatric, the CNA is enacting which type of ergonomic approach?
A) Engineering control
B) Administrative control
C) Work practice control
D) Workplace ergonomics

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The design of tools and equipment, the workstation, the workstation layout, materials handling tools, or mechanical lifts and other changes to the design of a job are considered engineering controls. Implementing these physical changes to a job is promoted by OSHA (n.d.-e) as the most effective means to eliminate hazards in the workplace and facilitate worker safety. An example of engineering controls includes a nurse using a mechanical lift to move patients who are unable to safely transfer on their own. Similarly, installing a sit-to-stand desk to vary working positions for a worker who spends much of the workday utilizing a computer reduces the risk of repetitive strain injuries. The use of a pneumatic tool with a handle that can move between horizontal or vertical orientation according to the position of the work task for neutral joint positioning also reduces the risk of musculoskeletal dysfunction. Although these are considered most effective in ensuring worker safety, they have the potential to be costly and may require significant changes to the worksite. This solution is often selected by an employer when making changes for multiple workers or groups; however, if changes are necessitated for individual workers, the cost and ease of implementation could make engineering controls more problematic to institute.

When a Certified Nursing Assistant Uses a Hoyer Lift with a Patient