Body Mechanics and Patient Safety

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to body mechanics, patient mobility, and safety practices in healthcare settings.

Nurse Aide

A healthcare worker who provides assistance with daily living activities under the supervision of a registered nurse.

Resident

A patient who resides in a healthcare facility.

OSHA

Occupational Safety and Health Administration; a regulatory agency that ensures safe and healthy working conditions.

Lift-Free Policy

A facility policy that prohibits the manual lifting of residents to minimize injury risk.

Body Mechanics

The way the body moves and adjusts during physical activity, focusing on muscle use and posture.

Ambulation

The act or ability of moving about or walking.

Gait Belt

A device used to assist a patient with mobility, providing support around the waist.

Mechanical Lifts

Equipment used to safely lift and transfer patients without manual lifting.

Independent Ambulation

The ability of a resident to walk or move about without assistance.

Snugly

Tightly fitted; securely fastened.

Emergency Release

A mechanism on a lift that allows for quick disengagement in case of an emergency.

Gait Belt Process

The procedure followed when using a gait belt to support a patient during ambulation.