Final answer:
With proper lifting technique, two individuals can lift a patient weighing up to 295 pounds, protecting the spine by reducing the forces on it.
Step-by-step explanation:
You and your partner should be able to lift a patient up to 295 pounds if you use proper lifting technique. It is noteworthy that the forces on the spine resulting from improper lifting techniques can be roughly 5.6 times higher than from standing erect. Consequently, because of its relative weakness, the back becomes more vulnerable to injury. Always maintain your back straight when lifting, and elevate the load with your legs to lessen the force applied to your spine. Depending on the participants' physical and strength conditions, this limit may change. But it's crucial to remember that lifting patients needs to be done carefully with the aid of the right tools and training.