All procedures
GMC #14/Patient care taught Y2
Moving & handling
Use, or direct others to use, approved methods for moving, lifting and handling people or objects, avoiding injury to patients, colleagues or oneself.
Target · Perform independently0% ready
Do it yourself on a patient, with support available if you need it — the GMC’s highest new-grad level (“indirect supervision”).
Overview
Protect the patient and yourself. The governing idea is: risk-assess first, use aids, never lift beyond your capability.
Indications
- Repositioning, transferring or mobilising patients (especially the frail)
Equipment
Hoist, slide sheet, transfer board, standing aid as appropriate
Step by step
Assess (LITE)
- 1Load — the patient’s weight/ability/cooperation
- 2Individual — your own capability & training
- 3Task — what movement is needed
- 4Environment — space, floor, equipment
Perform
- 1Brief the team and the patient; agree a clear command
- 2Use the correct posture: feet apart, bend at the knees, keep a neutral spine, hold the load close
- 3Use mechanical aids (hoist/slide sheet) rather than manual lifting where possible
- 4Move smoothly on the agreed count
Complications
- Injury to staff (back) or patient (skin shear, falls) if done poorly
OSCE tips
- Never lift beyond your capability — call for help/equipment.
- Risk-assess (LITE) before touching the patient.
- Bend the knees, neutral spine, load close.
Read
Sources & credits
Authored to UK finals standard and verified against UK guidance (NICE · BNF · Resuscitation Council UK · BTS) and Geeky Medics OSCE guides. Southampton teaching materials © University of Southampton. Always follow current local policy.