What should staff monitor during a manual handling manoeuvre?

Monitoring patient comfort and ensuring that undue pain is not being caused during a manual handling maneuver is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, the safety and well-being of the patient is the primary concern in any healthcare or manual handling scenario. If the patient experiences discomfort or pain, it can indicate that the handling technique may be inappropriate or that the patient requires additional support or adjustments.

In addition, focusing on patient comfort can help in building trust and rapport between staff and patients. When patients feel safe and comfortable, it can lead to better cooperation and outcomes during the handling process. This aspect also aligns with best practices and regulations in manual handling, emphasizing the importance of taking the patient's condition and feedback into account.

Monitoring elements like patient satisfaction, staff fatigue levels, or the type of equipment used, although important in broader contexts, do not prioritize immediate physical well-being during the manual handling process. Evaluating patient comfort directly addresses the impact of the maneuver on the individual being assisted.