lab 4: lifting & moving

Body mechanics

coordinated use of muscles, bones, joints to move safety & efficiently

Importance of body mechanics

prevention of musculoskeletal injuries & ensure safe pt handling

Power lift

focuses on strength and stability

power lift steps

1. feet shoulder width apart; one foot slightly ahead

2. bend at hips & knees, keeping back straight & butt pushed out

3. firmly grasp object w/ both hands

4. lift by engaging leg and glute muscles, back straight, head up

5. stand up using leg strength

Squat lift

focuses on flexibility & depth

squat lift steps

1. feet shoulder width apart

2. lower into full squat position: knees bent deeply, hips below knees

3. firmly grasp object w/ both hands

4. lift using heels & engaging leg + glute muscles, back straight & head up

5. stand up, legs doing most of the work

Power grip

grasps objects securely & efficiently, maximizes strength & stability

power grip characteristics

1. full hand engagement

2. firm hold

3. wrist alignment; neutral

4. balanced force; evenly distributed to minimize fatigue

Carrying devices

spine board, gurney, hospital bed, & stair chair

backboard/ spine board

immobilizes & supports pts spine

stretcher/gurney

for immobilization or inability to walk

hospital bed

for pt comfort, preforming medical care, aid in mobility & recovery

stair chair

light & portable to safe and easy transport up & down stairs

Types of moves

emergency, urgent, & non-urgent

Emergency moves

for rapid relocation due to direct threats to life or safety, prioritize speed & evacuation OVER spinal immobilization

types of emergency moves

blanket, clothes, armpit-forearm drags, and Georgia street (GS)

blanket drag

pt placed on blanket & dragged to safe location; effective on smooth surfaces

clothes drag

grasp pt clothes at shoulder and drag to safety; for short distances

armpit forearm drag

lift pt under armpits & drag to saftey; for necessary immediate evacuation w/ no equip.

georgia street (GS)

2 person carry, one lifts under pt armpits & other under pts knees; for short distances w/ no equip.

Urgent moves

for quick and safe reloactation from unsecure environment

urgent moves characteristics

1. potential environment risks

2. pt relatively stable but can change

3. timely & controlled; technique & equip. can be used

ex of urgent moves

rapid extrication & moving to shelter

Non-urgent moves

for pt relocation w/ no immediate danger; careful and deliberate

non-urgent characteristics

1. pt is stable

2. precautionary measures in place

3. controlled environment

ex of non-urgent moves

stretcher/wheelchair transport, walking assist

Gurney

most frequently used and essential tool, enhancing pt transport safety & efficiency