Body Mechanics and Transfers
Good Body Mechanics
Here are some principles of good body mechanics:
1. Use good posture and provide a broad base of support.
2. Always keep your body's line of balance close to your center of gravity (below waistline).
3. Hold object well balanced and close to your body.
4. When lifting, bend your knees and keep your back straight.
5. Don't twist your trunk.The most common cause of back strain is bending and twisting while lifting.
6. Roll or push a heavy object. Avoid pulling or lifting.
7. Work at a comfortable height.
Transfer Techniques Mean Teamwork!
Someone needs to take charge of the transfer by:
1. Reviewing all procedures with team members.
2. Calling the play
3. Establishing timing of the play
4. Synchronizing play events
Patient-Transfer Considerations - You need to know the age and condition of the patient you will be moving.
1. Moving patients from one place to another in a hospital requires wheeled transport which is the only method to assure patient safety.
2. Wheelchairs can be used for those who can sit upright.
3. Stretchers can be used for those too weak to sit.
4. Small children may be transported in cribs.
5. Infants may be transported in incubators.
Preparation for Transfer - You must make sure to follow these steps in preparing to transfer a patient.
1. Check with nursing service and obtain chart.
2. Check patient identification.
3. Plan what you are going to do and prepare your work area.
4. Obtain equipment and check it for safety and function.
5. Enlist the patient's help and cooperation. In order to enlist the patient's help, you must communicate with the patient what you are doing.
6. Obtain additional help when necessary to avoid injury. Communicate role of assistants in the transfer plan.