Title: Body Mechanics and Positioning and Draping
Course: PHT 1200C Basic Patient Care > Section: Module 2

Introduction

Module 2 provides an introduction to the importance of proper body mechanics for anyone who lifts, pushes, pulls, reaches for or carries items. These concepts are especially important for health care practitioners, patients, and caregivers, but in reality apply to everyone. Use of proper body mechanics during these activities helps to conserve energy and minimize stress and strain to the body, particularly the lumbar spine. Practicing good body mechanics is critical to protecting the back and reducing the risk for injury.

Module 2 also provides an introduction to positioning and draping. Understanding of these concepts is important during interactions with patients and may apply to a number of situations. Positioning and draping considerations during physical therapy treatment is important, even during short term treatment sessions. These concepts may be put into action during the application of modalities, passive range of motion, manual therapy techniques, or massage and should be considered for patient comfort and dignity. Positioning also plays a role in safety of the application of these techniques and proper use of body mechanics. These concepts may also be applied in other situations such as those those require positioning for preventive measures such as contracture prevention, wound healing, or for those patients on turning schedules to minimize skin breakdown.

Objectives

In this module students will:

- Review and discuss the principles of body mechanics and the importance of these principles for anyone who lifts, pushes, pulls, reaches for, or carries items
- Review and discuss the principles of positioning and draping
- Practice proper body mechanics
- Practice proper positioning and draping in guided patient scenarios
- Refine the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively
- Practice teaching other health care providers, patients, and families to perform selected treatment procedures and functional activities
- Practice interacting with patient and families in a manner which provides the desired psychosocial support

Readings and Resources

Chapter 4 Body Mechanics

Chapter 5 Positioning and Draping

Place Module Learning objects here

Assignments

- Complete readings
- Review the posted lecture materials
- Post and reply to Discussion 2
- Complete Lab Activities 2
- Complete and submit Quiz 2