Injuries from a lack of SPHM practices increase what for the healthcare system?

• A. Revenue
• B. Morale
• C. Efficiency
• D. Costs

Answer: (D)

Injuries from not using Safe Patient Handling and Mobility (SPHM) practices drive up costs for the healthcare system. When caregivers suffer injuries from patient handling, the system faces direct expenses such as workers' compensation, medical treatment, and paid time off. There are also indirect costs: overtime to cover lost staff, training or paying for temporary workers, and potential equipment or ergonomic program investments after an incident. Beyond money, injuries lead to turnover and reduced productivity, which further increases overall costs and can strain operations.

Revenue wouldn’t inherently rise because of injuries; in fact, it can be pressured by staffing shortages or disruptions. Morale typically declines, not increases, when injuries are common. Efficiency generally decreases as time is diverted to managing injuries, healing, and accommodating absent or limited staff. So the net effect of injuries from inadequate SPHM is higher costs for the healthcare system.