Patient Transfer and Body Mechanics in Radiography

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering patient transfer techniques, ergonomic principles, body mechanics, positions, and immobilization devices for radiologic technology.

Prone

The anatomical position of a patient lying flat on their stomach.

Wide stance

The body stance that provides the best base of support for stability during patient handling.

Positioning sponges

Common non-restraint immobilization devices used in radiography to assist in maintaining patient positioning.

Pigg-O-Stat

A specialized pediatric immobilization device most commonly used for obtaining upright pediatric chest x-rays.

Fowler position

A patient position in which the patient's head is elevated higher than their feet.

Trendelenburg position

A recumbent position in which the patient lies down with their feet positioned above their head.

Stability muscles

Muscles located in the torso that function primarily to provide postural support.

Base of support stability

The mechanical balance achieved when the body's center of gravity is positioned directly over its base of support.

Patient restraint prohibition

The clinical standard stating that it is unacceptable to restrain a patient if they become combative during a transfer.

Cervical collar

A spinal immobilization device that can only be removed with a physician's order.

Center of gravity ($S2$)

The anatomical level of the second sacral segment ($S2$), where the center of gravity is situated for most individuals.

Mobility muscles

Limb muscles designed for movement that should be utilized for lifting rather than the torso muscles.

Cart transfer leader

The transfer team member stationed at the patient's head who synchronizes all movements and commands among team members.

Pivoting

The correct body mechanics technique used to turn the body during a patient transfer instead of twisting the trunk.

Orthostatic hypotension

A sudden reduction in blood pressure that occurs when a patient stands up too quickly.

Blurred vision

A characteristic clinical symptom caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure during orthostatic hypotension.

Cart transfer team size

Three ($3$) people, which represents the desired number of staff to properly perform a cart transfer.

Auxiliary transfer equipment

Patient-attached medical equipment that must travel with the patient during a transfer, including IV lines, urine collection bags, and oxygen tubing.

Patient transfer participation

The fundamental principle of allowing the patient to execute as much of the transfer maneuver on their own as possible.

Standby-Assist

The specific wheelchair transfer approach implemented when a patient is capable of transferring on their own with supervision.

Surface positioning (cart transfer)

The preparatory procedure of ensuring transfer surfaces are aligned as close as possible prior to moving the patient.

Work-related back pain

A work-related musculoskeletal disorder that most radiologic technologists are likely to experience during their career.

Quarter-turn maneuver

A patient rolling maneuver executed to position a moving device (such as a slide board) beneath a patient prior to transfer.

Ambulatory

A clinical term that describes a patient who is able to walk without assistance.