Body Mechanics

health science 1

why is it important for healthcare workers to know how to to use their muscles correctly

to maintain safety

Minimize injuries

Maximize muscle productivity

What is body mechanics

the proper use of correct muscles to safely and efficiently complete a task while avoiding stain on any part of the body

what does body mechanics use to increase muscle productivity

Proper body alignment, balance, and movement

what are the benefits of having good body mechanics

efficiencies are realized when limiting, carrying, pushing or pulling thus saving time and energy

Risk of injuries to self or others is minimized

Avoidance of musculoskeletal strain

What are some types of injuries people can get from improper muscle usage

Strains

Sprains

Fatigue

Disc strain

Disc bulge

Disc herniation

What is the most common place for healthcare workers to get injured

Back

How can you avoid back injuries

stable center of gravity

Wide base of support

Line of gravity

Proper body alignment

What are the principles of body mechanics you should use when lifting

provide a wide base of support (feet shoulder with apart)

Bend at the hips and knees while keeping your back straight

Focus on lifting with your legs

Use two hands to lift anything(helps keep the weight balanced)

Carry objects close to your body and with two hands(helps keep control and support)

Point you toes towards the direction of movement and don’t twist unless necessary

what are the body mechanics for pushing and pulling objects

Use the weight of your body to push/ pull object

Use both hands

Keep shoulders back, chin up and look straight ahead

Avoid frequent twisting and turning

Who is proper body mechanics especially important for

patients in rehab

Geriatric patients with physical limitations

What do physical therapists and occupational therapists do with patients

Teach them how to perform daily living. Including the use of specialized equipment like walkers and canes

what is important to remember when positioning a patient in bed

maintaining body alignment

Providing physiological safety

Ventilation and airway management

What tools can be used to help ensure proper body alignment

pillows

Rolled towels

What are the 4 basic positions for patients in bed

side-lying

Supine

Prone

Fowler position

What is side-lying position

used for comport/sleeping and helps keep the airways clear for semi-conscious or unconscious patients

What is the supine position

Used for comfort and sleeping

Also used to limit a patients movement after certain surgical procedures

What is prone position

Used for comfort and sleeping and back treatments or examinations

Only position that allows full extension of hip and knee joint

What is Fowler’s position

used for patients with respiratory or cardiovascular diseases

Can be used at a 45 degree angle (Semi-Fowlers)

Can be used at 90 degree angle(full fowlers)

What is a patient transfer

moving patients and help patients move

What should you do if a patient begins to fall

lower them down to the closest flat surface to avoid injury to self and the patient then call for help