Objectives: There has been extensive investment in programmes to reduce injuries among
health care staff caused by moving and handling patients or residents. Given conflicting
evidence regarding the effectiveness of such programmes, the present paper conducted a
critical appraisal of systematic reviews assessing the effectiveness of interventions in
reducing back pain and injuries among healthcare staff. A realist synthesis was conducted
on a second set of reports to identify best practices for moving and handling programmes.
Design: A critical appraisal of systematic reviews and a realist synthesis to identify best
practices for moving and handling programmes.