Biomechanical effects of an ergonomic belt on grip contact pressure during patient turning across BMI categories: A simulated patient repeated-measures study

Abstract

Background

Patient handling is a high physically demanding task for healthcare workers, frequently leading to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Despite mechanical aids, manual handling persists, highlighting the need for practical ergonomic solutions.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate a specially designed ergonomic belt's effectiveness in reducing hand contact pressure during patient handling, comparing it to conventional methods (draw sheet or blanket) across diverse patient BMI (Body Mass Index) categories.

Methods

Fifteen male healthcare workers performed standardized turning maneuvers on three simulated patients representing underweight (BMI 18.4), normal weight (BMI 21.3), and obese class I (BMI 34.9) categories. Hand contact pressure was recorded using a calibrated pneumatic sensing system (ERGOTactile), and perceived exertion was rated using the Borg scale. Each participant completed three randomized trials per condition. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and repeated measures ANOVA.

Results

The ergonomic belt significantly reduced contact pressure across all BMI groups: 26.0% for underweight (p < 0.001), 31.2% for normal weight (p = 0.003), and 35.2% for obese patients (p < 0.001). Borg exertion scores also declined significantly. A strong correlation between BMI and contact pressure (r = 0.82, p < 0.001) observed in conventional methods was neutralized with the belt (r = 0.24, p = 0.39), indicating consistent performance regardless of patient weight.

Conclusions

The ergonomic belt effectively reduces physical strain by improving grip mechanics and distributing force more efficiently. Its use may enhance safety and reduce injury risks for healthcare workers, especially when handling heavier patients.