Body Mechanics, Transfers, and Positioning – CNA Module 5 Review

A comprehensive set of question-and-answer flashcards covering injury prevention, transfer techniques, ambulation safety, positioning, and proper body mechanics from CNA Module 5.

What is the primary goal of practicing good body mechanics in healthcare settings?

To minimize discomfort, maximize safety, and decrease the rate of injury for both workers and residents.

Why should a nursing assistant avoid lifting aggressive or confused residents without assistance?

Because residents can be unpredictable, increasing the risk of injury to both the resident and the caregiver.

Before moving a resident, what planning step should always be taken?

Pre-plan the move, including gathering equipment, reviewing the care plan, and arranging help if needed.

Explain why a wide base of support and bent knees are essential during lifts.

They lower the caregiver’s center of gravity, providing greater stability and reducing strain on the back.

Name three pieces of equipment that aid in moving residents.

Gait belts, sit-to-stand lifts, and friction-reducing repositioning devices (slide sheets/boards).

List two lifestyle choices that help prevent injury for healthcare workers.

Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy body weight.

How can hallways be kept safe to prevent trips and falls?

By keeping hallways free of clutter, placing equipment on the same side, and promptly cleaning spills.

What is “dangling,” and why is it important before transferring a resident?

Allowing the resident to sit on the edge of the bed for a few minutes so blood pressure normalizes before standing.

When should a resident’s footwear be applied during a transfer?

After confirming the resident is not dizzy and is stable enough to stand safely.

Describe the correct gait-belt placement.

Around the resident’s waist, over clothing, snug but allowing room for the caregiver’s fingers.

Why must a gait belt be used for residents requiring one- or two-assist transfers?

It prevents pulling on the shoulders/arms and provides a secure handhold for caregivers.

During a one-assist transfer, what verbal cue helps synchronize movement?

Counting "1-2-3" and standing together on the count of three.

In a two-assist transfer, where do the assistants place their feet relative to the resident’s feet?

Each assistant places one foot outside the resident’s corresponding foot for stability.

Which four resident conditions often require mechanical transfer devices?

Fragile skin, morbid obesity, inability to bear weight, or unpredictable behavior.

What resident ability is necessary for using a sit-to-stand lift?

The ability to bear at least partial weight on the legs.

How many staff members are required when using a full-sling mechanical lift?

Two nursing assistants.

Why must the sling type and size match what is listed in the care plan?

To ensure the resident’s safety and proper support during the lift.

When is log rolling required, and how many caregivers are involved?

When spinal trauma is suspected or confirmed; it requires three caregivers.

How many staff are needed to transfer a resident from bed to stretcher safely?

At least four staff members (five if a spinal injury is suspected for head stabilization).

State two key safety measures when transferring a bariatric resident.

Always use two or more assistants and avoid rushing; have all equipment prepared in advance.

Why should you never pull a wheelchair backward while a resident is seated?

Because the resident cannot see obstacles, increasing the risk of collisions and injury.

After positioning a resident in a wheelchair, when should the brakes be unlocked?

After the resident is safely seated and before beginning transport.

How often should residents be repositioned while in bed?

At least every 2 hours, or more frequently per individual needs.

How frequently should residents in wheelchairs be repositioned?

At least every 1 hour.

Define the supine position and list two common pressure areas.

Resident lies flat on back; pressure areas include the back of the skull and the sacrum/coccyx.

Which bed position is typically used to ease breathing difficulties?

Fowler’s or Semi-Fowler’s position.

At what bed-head angle is High-Fowler’s position set, and for what activity is it often used?

80–90 degrees; commonly used while the resident is eating or drinking.

Why is the prone position rarely used for older adults?

It is uncomfortable and places pressure on ears, hips, knees, and toes.

What is the primary use of Sims’s position in healthcare?

Administering enemas.

Describe the tripod position and its purpose.

Resident sits with elbows on a table and head in hands; it helps relieve breathing problems.

When positioning a resident in side-lying, where should pillows be placed to reduce pressure?

Under the head, between the knees, and behind the back.

List two checkpoints for proper wheelchair positioning.

Resident’s hips against the back of the chair and feet touching the floor or supported by leg rests.

During ambulation, why must the nursing assistant lock wheelchair or bed brakes before the resident stands?

To prevent movement of the support surface, ensuring resident safety while rising.

Explain the one-assistant method for moving a resident up in bed.

Flatten the bed, have resident bend knees and push with feet while grasping rails or trapeze, and assist by lifting under thighs.

When two assistants move a resident up in bed with a draw sheet, which muscles should they primarily use?

The large muscles of the hips, thighs, and buttocks.

Why is a lift (draw) sheet preferred when repositioning residents?

It allows caregivers to move the resident with minimal shearing and reduced strain.

What must be done before operating any mechanical lift device for the first time?

Obtain proper training on its operation.

Which footwear options are acceptable for resident transfers?

Shoes and socks, gripper socks, or slippers with tread.

What is the safest action if a resident repeatedly needs more or less help than the care plan states?

Report the change to the nurse so the care plan can be updated.

Identify two ways to reduce friction and shearing injuries in Fowler’s positions.

Place pillows under elbows and lower legs, and ensure heels are not rubbing on the mattress.

Why is it important not to rotate your back while lifting?

Twisting increases spinal stress and risk of musculoskeletal injury.