Moving and handling patients can be challenging. Workers need to protect themselves and patients from injury while maintaining the dignity of those being moved. Using the ELITE framework can help with this. So, what does ELITE stand for in moving and handling?
In this blog, we break down the ELITE acronym and explain how each step can guide healthcare professionals through safe practices when moving patients.
Defining Moving and Handling
Moving and handling refers specifically to the safe techniques and practices used to move people, often within healthcare settings. This specialised form of manual handling encompasses all activities related to assisting patients with movement, whether it involves lifting, transferring, repositioning or supporting them. The goal is to ensure the safety and dignity of patients while preventing injuries to healthcare workers.
Previously, moving patients was grouped under the general term “manual handling,” which included the movement of inanimate objects. This classification overlooked the nuance and compassion required in patient handling.
To address this, the term “moving and handling” was adopted specifically for the movement of people, while “manual handling” continues to refer to the movement of inanimate loads, such as lifting boxes, carrying equipment or moving furniture. This distinction highlights the unique considerations involved in safely and respectfully moving patients.
Moving and Handling Regulations
Legally, moving and handling tasks still fall under the broader category of manual handling, which is controlled by the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (MHOR).
These regulations set out a clear duty for employers to manage and reduce the risks associated with any manual handling activity, including moving and handling people.
ELITE isn’t featured in MHOR, and you’re not legally required to use it. However, following the framework helps you comply with regulations and promotes a safer workplace.
What Does ELITE Stand For in Moving People?
The ELITE acronym is designed to help healthcare workers remember safe practices when moving and handling patients. Each step in the ELITE framework plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of injury and improving efficiency in healthcare settings.
E – Environment
The first step is to assess the environment. Before you move a patient, take a moment to evaluate the area where the task will be performed. Look for any potential hazards, such as wet floors, poor lighting or obstacles.
Ensure that the path is clear and safe for moving the patient. If you identify any environmental risks, address them before proceeding. For instance, ensure the bed height is appropriate and that necessary equipment is readily accessible.
L – Load
Next, evaluate the patient’s needs and characteristics. Consider the patient’s weight, mobility level and any health conditions that might affect the move. Determine if the patient is too heavy or requires specialised equipment for safe handling. If so, use lifting equipment or ask for additional help. Ensure that the patient is secure and that all necessary supports are in place.
I – Individual
Consider the capabilities of the healthcare workers involved in the task. Ensure that everyone participating in the move is fit, trained and competent to perform it safely. Account for any health issues or injuries that might affect a worker’s ability to move the patient. Matching the task to the individual’s capabilities is essential for safe moving and handling.
T – Task
Plan the task thoroughly. Understand the specific requirements, including how far and how high the patient needs to be moved. Break the task into manageable steps if necessary. For example, moving a patient from a bed to a chair might involve several stages, each requiring careful coordination. Avoid stooping or twisting motions, as these increase the risk of injury to the mover.
E – Equipment
Identify and use the appropriate equipment to aid in moving the patient. Tools such as hoists, transfer boards or sliding sheets can make the task safer and more efficient. Ensure all equipment is in good working order and that healthcare workers are trained to use it properly. For instance, check that hoist slings are the correct size and type for the patient and that they are correctly positioned before use.
By following the ELITE framework, healthcare workers can ensure they are using the safest and most effective methods for moving and handling patients, reducing the risk of injury and improving the quality of care.
What Does ELITE Stand For in Other Manual Handling Tasks?
The ELITE framework is primarily designed for the healthcare sector to ensure the safe movement and handling of patients. However, its principles can also be applied to traditional manual handling tasks involving inanimate objects. Despite this versatility, other frameworks, such as TILE and TILEO, are typically preferred for non-healthcare manual handling tasks.
Manual Handling Frameworks: TILE and TILEO
Two other commonly applied frameworks are TILE and TILEO, which are typically used for traditional manual handling tasks involving inanimate loads.
What is TILE?
TILE stands for Task, Individual, Load, and Environment. This framework helps assess the key factors involved in a manual handling task. Here’s a breakdown of each component:
- Task: Examine the specific task to be performed. Consider the actions required, such as lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling. Think about the frequency and duration of the task and whether it involves any awkward postures or repetitive movements.
- Individual: Consider the capabilities of the person performing the task. Assess their physical condition, experience and training. Ensure they are fit for the task and have no health issues that could be exacerbated by manual handling.
- Load: Evaluate the characteristics of the load, including its weight, size, shape and stability. Determine if the load is hazardous or awkward to handle. Knowing these details helps in planning the safest way to move it.
- Environment: Assess the environment where the task will take place. Look for potential hazards such as uneven floors, poor lighting or obstacles. Ensure the path is clear and safe for moving the load.
What is TILEO?
TILEO is an extension of the TILE framework, adding an extra step to provide a more comprehensive assessment:
- T – Task: Same as in TILE, focusing on the nature of the task.
- I – Individual: Same as in TILE, focusing on the person’s capabilities.
- L – Load: Same as in TILE, focusing on the characteristics of the load.
- E – Environment: Same as in TILE, focusing on the surrounding conditions.
- O – Other factors: Consider any other factors that might affect the task. This could include the use of mechanical aids, the time available to complete the task or any specific instructions or regulations that need to be followed.
Implementing ELITE in Your Workplace
After answering, “What does ELITE stand for in moving and handling?” you need to implement it into your workers’ daily routines. Training is essential for this. Because without training, ELITE are just words.
To use ELITE, workers need to understand how to evaluate loads, inspect the environment, use mechanical aids and deploy proper lifting techniques. This knowledge empowers them to perform tasks safely and efficiently.
Manual Handling Training
Answering “What does ELITE stand for in moving and handling?” isn’t as important as investing in manual handling training. Because an acronym isn’t helpful unless you know how to apply it to your work.
Our online Manual Handling Training helps workers use safe manual handling practices in their daily tasks. It teaches them how to assess loads, identify hazards and use the correct methods to lift, carry, push or pull objects.
Providing manual handling training sessions offers several benefits:
- Reduced Injury Rates: Training helps prevent common injuries such as back pain, strains and sprains by teaching safe handling techniques.
- Increased Awareness: Workers become more aware of the potential hazards and how to avoid them, leading to reduced injury rates.
- Improved Productivity: Proper techniques reduce fatigue and increase efficiency, allowing workers to complete tasks more quickly and effectively.
- Compliance with Regulations: The course supports your duty to provide relevant training and instruction to workers who carry out manual handling tasks.
Training transforms manual handling principles from theory into practice, leading to real improvements in safety and performance.
About the author(s)
Jonathan Goby