3. People, collapse, and knowing the limit

Patients

Most GDP patients walk. If someone needs transferring from a wheelchair, that is a planned task: enough trained people, the right chair arms, no twisting in a cramped surgery. Do not improvise a hoist you have never used.

Collapse

Medical emergencies training covers ABCDE. Handling a collapsed person on the floor is about access for CPR and not injuring yourself: get help, use a slide sheet or blanket only if you have practised, wait for ambulance crews for awkward lifts. Heroic fireman’s carries down a staircase are how two people get hurt.

Report pain early

Back and shoulder pain related to work belongs in the accident book / occupational health, not in silence until you cannot take an impression. Adjust the task the same week.

Close

Avoid the lift, TILE what remains, use kit, two people when the load or the stairs say so. Fire, COSHH and general health and safety are separate 1-hour courses.

Always follow current HSE manual-handling guidance and your site assessment.