Body Mechanics For The Caregiver: General Rules 2
Body Mechanics For The Caregiver: General Rules 2
Body Mechanics For The Caregiver: General Rules 2
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General Rules 2. • To feel in control, get close to the
• Never lift more than you can comfortably person you are lifting.
handle. • While lifting, keep your back in a
• Create a base of support by standing with neutral position (arched normally,
your feet 8–12” (shoulder width) apart not stiff), knees bent, weight balanced
with one foot a half-step ahead of the on both feet. Tighten your stomach
other. and back muscles to maintain a
correct support position.
• Use your arms to support the person.
• Again, let your legs do the lifting.
Moving a Person
When you have to move someone—either in bed or out of bed—
remember these tips:
• Plan the move and know what you can and cannot do.
• Let the person do as much work as he is capable of.
• Avoid letting the person put his arms around your neck or grab
you.
• Use a transfer belt to balance and support the person.
• Place transfer surfaces (wheelchair and bed) close together.
• Check wheelchair position, brakes locked, armrests and footrests
swung out of the way.
• Let the person look to the place where he is being transferred.
• If the person is able, place his hands on the bed or chair so he can
assist in the movement. If the person has had a stroke or is afraid,
have him clasp his hands close to his chest.
• Ask the person to push rather than pull on the bed rails, the chair,
or you.
• Work at the person’s level and speed and check for pain.
• Avoid sudden jerking motions.
• Never pull on the person’s arms or shoulders.
• Correctly position the person. (This helps the body regain lost
function and helps prevent additional function loss.)
• Have the person wear shoes with good treads or sturdy slippers.
NOTE
To encourage independence, let the person assist as he is able. It’s
okay for the person to stand up partly and sit back down. I