Unit 12.1: Using Body Mechanics

List five safety checkpoints that should be observed before leaving a patient or resident in a bed.

- make sure the patient is comfortable - place things needed for the patient within reach - wash your hands - leave the area neat and clean - check the bed rails to make sure they are elevated

List four rules or standards to observe while working with equipment in the laboratory.

- never use any electrical equipment with wet hands or around water - observe all safety precautions when handling equipment - do not operate any solutions unless told to do so - do not operate equipment if your instructor isn't in your room

List four rules or standards to observe while working with solutions in the laboratory.

- never use chemical solutions from bottles that are not labeled - do not mix any solutions together unless told so - read MSDS before handling any hazardous chemicals - store all chemicals solutions in a locked cabinet

What are two methods you can use to correctly identify a patient?

check the identification wristband and ask them their name

You start to plug in an electrical cord and notice that the third prong for grounding has been broken off.

do not use it

You turn on a piece of equipment, but it does not run correctly.

do not use it; put a lock on it

Before you perform any procedure on patients, there are several standards you must observe. List four of these standards.

explain the procedure, provide privacy, identify your patient, and do not perform any procedure unless told so

When should hands be washed?

frequently, always before and after any procedures

Name the three main diseases that can be contracted by exposure to body fluids.

hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and AIDS/HIV

You get a particle in your eye.

inform instructor; do not try to remove or rub eye

Identify two ways to show respect for a patient's right to privacy.

knock on the door before entering and close the door before beginning a procedure

List three reasons for using correct body mechanics.

muscles works best when used correctly, correct use of muscles makes lifting, pulling, and pushing easier, and correct application of body mechanics prevents injury to self and others

You spill an acid solution on the counter.

read MSDS directions for spill

Define body mechanics.

refers to the way in which the body moves and maintains balance while making the most efficient use of all its parts

You cut your hand slightly on a piece of glass.

report it

When should safety glasses be worn?

when instructed, and in situations that might result in eye injury