Which factor most directly increases costs when SPHM practices are not followed?

Which factor most directly increases costs when SPHM practices are not followed?

• A. Increased revenue
• B. Shorter hospital stays
• C. Higher expenses
• D. Improved patient safety

Answer: (C)

Safe patient handling and mobility (SPHM) practices are designed to protect staff and patients during transfers and manual tasks. When these practices aren’t followed, injuries to healthcare workers become more likely, and that directly drives up costs. Expenses increase from medical treatment, workers’ compensation, overtime to cover lost work, retraining or hiring new staff, equipment wear or replacement, and potential penalties or lawsuits. These cost rises stem from the tangible financial impact of injuries and safety incidents. The other options don’t fit: not following SPHM wouldn’t boost revenue or shorten hospital stays, and it wouldn’t improve patient safety; it would likely reduce safety and increase costs.

Safe patient handling and mobility (SPHM) practices are designed to protect staff and patients during transfers and manual tasks. When these practices aren’t followed, injuries to healthcare workers become more likely, and that directly drives up costs. Expenses increase from medical treatment, workers’ compensation, overtime to cover lost work, retraining or hiring new staff, equipment wear or replacement, and potential penalties or lawsuits. These cost rises stem from the tangible financial impact of injuries and safety incidents. The other options don’t fit: not following SPHM wouldn’t boost revenue or shorten hospital stays, and it wouldn’t improve patient safety; it would likely reduce safety and increase costs.