The influence of individual and organisational factors on nurses' behaviour to use lifting devices in healthcare

AimsThis study evaluates the influence of individual and organisational factors on nurses' behaviour to use lifting devices in healthcare.MethodsInterviews among nurses were conducted to collect individual characteristics and to establish their behaviour regarding lifting devices use. Organisational factors were collected by questionnaires and walk-through-surveys, comprising technical facilities, organisation of care, and management-efforts. Generalised-Estimating-Equations for repeated measurements were used to estimate determinants of nurses' behaviour.ResultsImportant determinants of nurses' behaviour to use lifting devices were knowledge of workplace procedures (OR = 5.85), strict guidance on required lifting devices use (OR = 2.91), and sufficient lifting devices (OR = 1.92). Management-support and supportive-management-climate were associated with these determinants.ConclusionSince nurses' behaviour to use lifting devices is influenced by factors at different levels, studies in ergonomics should consider how multi-level factors impact each other. An integral approach, addressing individual and organisational levels, is necessary to facilitate appropriate implementation of ergonomic interventions, like lifting devices.

► Knowledge on work procedures is important for nurses' behaviour to use lifting devices. ► Sufficient lifting devices supported nurses' behaviour to use lifting devices. ► Patient specific strict lifting guidance should be targeted in workplace policies. ► Management support facilitates proper implementation of ergonomic interventions. ► Implementation of ergonomic interventions requires integration at all levels in the organisation.