Question

The nurse is preparing to reposition a dependent client who weighs more than 250 lbs. Which interventions should the nurse use to move this client? Select all that apply.

1.Use a friction-reducing slide sheet.
2.Use a mechanical lift to move the client.
3.Place the client in Trendelenburg's position. 4.Keep elbows close and work close to the body. 5.Administer oral pain medication 5 minutes before moving the client.
6.Obtain assistance of a second caregiver to assist with mechanical aids.

Answer 1

To move a dependent client who is heavy, the nurse should use methods such as a friction-reducing slide sheet and a mechanical lift, ensure proper body mechanics, and get assistance from another caregiver. Hence, options (1), (2), (4) and (5) are correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

When preparing to reposition a dependent client who weighs more than 250 lbs, the nurse should consider several interventions to ensure the safety of both the client and the healthcare team. The nurse should:

1. Use a friction-reducing slide sheet. This helps to decrease the force required to move the client by reducing the resistance caused by friction between the client and the surface they are lying on.
2. Use a mechanical lift to move the client. Mechanical lifts are designed to safely handle heavier weights and reduce the strain on caregivers.
3. Keep elbows close and work close to the body. Maintaining proper body mechanics reduces the risk of injury when moving heavy clients.
4. Obtain assistance of a second caregiver to assist with mechanical aids. This ensures that the workload is shared and client safety is maintained during repositioning.

Placing the client in Trendelenburg's position is not specifically related to moving a heavy client and should be performed according to the client's medical needs and conditions. Administering pain medication is important but would depend on the client's pain level and should be given with adequate time to take effect, rather than just 5 minutes before moving.