Chapter 10

List nine guidelines for using proper body mechanics.

1) Assess the load 2) Think ahead, plan, and communicate the move 3) Check your base of support and be sure you have firm footing 4) Face what you are lifting 5) Keep your back straight 6) Begin in a squatting position and lift with your legs 7) Tighten your stomach muscles when beginning to lift 8) Keep the object close to your body 9) Push when possible, rather than lifting

List five guidelines for using a mechanical lift.

1) Be careful, have another person assist you when transferring a resident with these lifts. 2) Keep the chair/wheelchair to which the resident is to be moved close to be, so the resident will only move a short distance in the lift. 3) Check that the valves are working on the lift before using it. 4) Check the sling and straps for any fraying or tears. 5) Open the legs of the stand to the widest position before helping the resident into the lift 6) Once the resident is in the sling and the straps are connected, pump up the lift only to the point where the resident's body clears the bed or chair.

What is positioning?

Body mechanics

How often should bedbound residents be repositioned?

Every 2 hours

In which position is a resident in a semi- sitting position (45 to 60 degrees) with the head and shoulders elevated?

Fowler's

Before helping a resident into or out of a wheelchair, what should a nursing assistant do?

Lock the wheelchair and make sure the resident is wearing non-skid footwear that is securely fastened

What is a draw sheet?

Sheet that assists with moving the patient up in bed

In which position is a resident lying on his left side with the lower arm behind the back and the upper knee bent and raised toward the chest?.

Sims

When may stretchers be used for residents?

Stretchers may be used for serious injuries and illnesses and/or when a person cannot or should not walk but need to be transported somewhere

What is one benefit of using the toilet rather than a bedpan or urinal?

The bladder empties more efficiently when a person is able to use the toilet

. What is the purpose of canes?

The purpose of a cane is to help with balance

If a resident has a weaker side, which side moves first in a transfer-the weaker or stronger side?

The stronger side

Describe how a transfer belt is applied.

The transfer belt is placed over the resident's clothing and around the waist. The buckle is tightened until it is snug. Then the buckle is positioned slightly off-center in the front or back for comfort.

How does dangling benefit a resident?

This helps resident regain balance before standing up and allows blood pressure to stabilize. Especially useful for residents who are unable to walk.

When is logrolling necessary?

When turning residents' that have neck or back problems, spinal cord injuries, or back or hip surgeries. These residents' require that their spinal columns are kept in alignment.

Which type of adaptive device for walking can be used when a resident can bear no weight on one leg-cane, walker, or crutches?

crutches

How many feet does a quad cane have

four

In which position is a resident lying on his side?

lateral

In which position is a resident lying on his stomach?

prone

What is shearing?

stress that pushes masses of rock in opposite directions, in a sideways movement

In which position is a resident lying flat on his back?

supine

Define ambulation.

the act of walking

Which side should a nursing assistant stand near when a resident is using adaptive equipment-the weaker or stronger side?

weaker side