Biomechanics, Ergonomics, and Patient Transfer Techniques

Vocabulary flashcards covering biomechanics, body mechanics, ergonomics, stretching routines, and patient transfer techniques based on the lecture materials.

Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSD)

The leading cause of disability for healthcare workers.

Base of Support

The foundation on which the body rests, constituted by the feet and the space between the feet when standing.

Mobility Muscles

Muscles found in the limbs with long white tendons that cross two or more joints (e.g., biceps and hamstrings), which are utilized for lifting.

Stability Muscles

Muscles found in the torso with large expansive structures (e.g., rectus abdominis), which are utilized for support.

Body Mechanics

The safe handling and positioning of patients through the application of the laws of physics to the human body.

Center of Gravity

The hypothetical point at which all of the body's mass becomes concentrated; in the anatomic position, it is located at the second sacral segment.

Orthostatic Hypotension

A sudden drop in blood pressure resulting from standing too quickly, which increases when a patient has been supine for an extended period, is debilitated, or is taking certain medications.

Standby Assist Transfer

A transfer technique used for patients who can transfer independently, requiring the wheelchair to be positioned at a $45^\times$ angle (or $45^\text{o}$ / $45^\times$) relative to the table.

Assisted Standing Pivot Transfer

A wheelchair transfer technique for patients who cannot transfer independently but can bear weight on their legs, utilizing a $45^\times$ angle wheelchair placement and potentially a transfer belt.

Two-Person Lift

A lift technique where the stronger person reaches under the axilla to grab the patient's forearm to lift the torso, while the second person squats and lifts the calves on command.

Hydraulic Lift Technique

A transfer method utilizing a manual pump and release valve, intended for patients who are too heavy to lift manually.

Cart Transfers

Stretcher or gurney transfers executed by placing the cart as close to the table as possible, locking it, rolling the patient to insert a slide board, and pulling the patient across while retrieving the board.

Commonly Attached Medical Equipment

Equipment attached to patients—including oxygen tubing, intravenous lines, central lines, postsurgical drains, and urine bags—that must be checked before moving the patient.

Sides Stretch

A stretch performed standing upright with feet shoulder-width apart, placing the left arm behind the head, leaning to the right for $45\text{ seconds}$, and repeating on the opposite side.

Shoulder Rolls

An exercise performed by standing upright with hands at the side and executing $10$ posterior shoulder rolls.

Back Bends Stretch

A stretch performed by standing upright with hands on the posterior aspect of the hips, pushing hips forward, and arching the back over hands for $15\text{ seconds}$.

Toe Touches Stretch

A stretch performed by standing upright and slowly bending over at the hip with knees slightly bent to attempt to touch the toes or ankles for $15\text{ seconds}$.