Basic Body Mechanics for Transportation
The following video reviews body mechanics. Please read each slide carefully. Each slide will remain on the screen for 15 seconds. You may pause and play as needed to continue reading if you need more time. It is recommended to watch this training in full screen. The text has been provided below in the event you prefer that format.
https://www.loom.com/share/e050d25a19544b1aa83866ae4b032f9f?t=0
Objectives
- Assist and Transfer Clients in a safe and caring manner
- Avoid Injury while assisting Clients
- How to transfer clients with and without assistance
General Considerations
- Allow the patient to help as much as possible.
- Estimate the patient’s weight and mentally practice.
- Make sure that the floor is free of any obstacles or liquids.
- Keep your feet shoulder width apart.
- Keep the person (or object) as close to your body as possible.
- Tighten your stomach muscles.
- Bend knees and hips, and keep your back straight throughout the movement.
- Lift with your legs, NOT your back.
- Do not twist your back as you lift. To turn when lifting, pivot your feet.
Key Points for Body Mechanics During Transfers
- Use proper body mechanics
- Keep your back straight
- Bend at your knees and hips and keep your spine in a neutral position.
- Have a slightly wider stance to help yourself stabilize.
- Engage your muscles and ready your body for the transfer.
- Don’t bend over
- Do not lift someone from behind or in front
- Avoid pulling up on the arm(s) or hand(s)
- Pulling on the person’s arm(s) or hand(s) places a lot of stress on the individual’s shoulder(s) that could result in a rotator cuff injury, such as a muscle or tendon tear.
- When holding the person’s arm, stand as close to them as possible to minimize the risk of injury.
- Keep your back straight throughout the transfer to avoid bending or straining your back.
- Get as close to the person as possible while still allowing him/her to lean forward as needed to assist with the transfer.
- Keep the walker/cane/wheelchair nearby
- Having the mobility aid close by will decrease the risk of falling while trying to stand and it can provide the individual with support once they are in the standing position.
- Once standing (and before moving), ensure that the person is feeling well and adjusted to the position (no dizzy spells!)
- When the person confirms that he/she is okay, you have completed the standing transfer and can continue on with the day!
Tips for Client’s Who Prefer No Assistance
Common Assistive Devices
- Canes
- Scooters
- Walkers
- Crutches
- Wheelchairs
- Oxygen Tanks
