Assistive Care Skills: Safe Ambulation, Mobility Support, and Positioning

Immobilization

A state where a person is unable or significantly less able to move independently.

Pressure injuries

Skin breakdown due to constant pressure reducing blood flow.

Muscle atrophy

A decrease in muscle mass and strength due to disuse.

Contractures

Permanent shortening of muscles or tendons that restrict movement.

Atelectasis

Collapsed air sacs in the lungs, often due to shallow breathing.

Orthostatic hypotension

A drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to dizziness or fainting.

Gait belt

A sturdy strap placed around a person's waist to assist with walking or transfers.

Assistive devices

Tools like canes, walkers, and wheelchairs that improve mobility and safety.

Skid-proof footwear

Shoes with non-slip soles that reduce the risk of slipping.

Shear

Skin layers sliding over deeper tissue, often leading to injuries.

Fowler's position

A seated position with the head elevated to improve lung expansion.

Drawsheet

A sheet used to reposition a patient, reducing friction and shear.

Body alignment

Proper positioning of the body to maintain neutral joint positions.

Intrinsic factors

Internal risk factors for falls, such as weakness and confusion.

Extrinsic factors

External risk factors for falls, including environmental hazards.

Mobility

The ability to move freely and easily.

Repositioning

The act of changing a patient's position to prevent complications.

Hydration

Maintaining fluid balance, important for circulation and overall function.

Dangle

To sit at the edge of the bed with feet supported, allowing acclimation before standing.

Surface traction

Forces that pull surfaces in opposite directions, affecting skin integrity.

Cognitive impairment

Difficulty with thinking, understanding, and processing information.

Pneumonia

Lung infection that can occur due to poor lung function from immobility.

Patient-centered care

Healthcare focused on individual patients' needs and preferences.

Bony prominences

Areas of the body where bone is close to the skin, susceptible to pressure injuries.

Range-of-motion (ROM)

Exercises that move joints through their full extent of motion.

Calf pain

Discomfort in the calf that can signify potential deep vein thrombosis.

Transfer aids

Devices that assist in moving a person safely from one position to another.