TY  - JOUR
PY  - 2017//
TI  - Implementing powered stretcher and load systems was a cost effective intervention to reduce the incidence rates of stretcher related injuries in a paramedic service
JO  - Applied ergonomics
A1  - Armstrong, Daniel P.
A1  - Ferron, Richard
A1  - Taylor, Cindi
A1  - McLeod, Brent
A1  - Fletcher, Steve
A1  - MacPhee, Renée S.
A1  - Fischer, Steven L.
SP  - 34
EP  - 42
VL  - 62
IS  - 
N2  - Paramedic services are considering moving towards the use of powered stretcher and load systems to reduce stretcher related injuries, but cost is perceived as a barrier. This study compared injury incidence rates, days lost, and compensation costs between Niagara Emergency Medical Service (NEMS) and Hamilton Paramedic Service (HPS) pre- (four years) and post- (one year) implementation of powered stretcher and load systems in NEMS. Prior to the intervention stretcher related musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) incidence rates averaged 20.0 (±6.8) and 17.9 (±6.4) per 100 full time equivalent (FTE), in NEMS and HPS respectively. One-year post intervention rates decreased to 4.3 per 100 FTE in NEMS, a 78% reduction. Rates modestly increased to 24.6 per 100 FTE in HPS in same period. Cost-benefit analysis estimated that the added cost to purchase powered stretcher and load systems would be recovered within their expected 7-year service life due to the reduction in compensation costs.<br><br>Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.<p />  <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 0003-6870
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.apergo.2017.02.009
ID  - ref1
ER  -