Question

The nurse is teaching a class on safe patient handling and mobility. What will the nurse include? Select all that apply

A- maintain a wide, stable base with your feet prior to lifting
B- attempt to lift with a team prior to using client-handling equipment
C- Keep the client directly in front of your body while providing care
D- place the bed at knee level when providing direct care
E- place the client 1 foot away from your body prior to lifting

Answer 1

The nurse's instruction on safe patient handling should include maintaining a wide, stable base with the feet, keeping the client directly in front of the body, and placing the bed at elbow level for direct care. A team lift is recommended if client-handling equipment is not available, while ensuring the client is close to the caregiver's body prior to lifting.

Step-by-step explanation:

Instructing a class on safe patient handling and mobility, the nurse should emphasize the following key points:

• Maintain a wide, stable base with your feet prior to lifting to provide a larger base of support and increase stability.
• Keep the client directly in front of your body while providing care to reduce the risk of strain and maintain balance.
• Place the bed at an appropriate level, generally at elbow level, rather than knee level when providing direct care to help maintain a good posture and reduce back strain.

While it is important to use client-handling equipment when available, it is also necessary to lift with a team if equipment is not an option. However, the client should not be placed 1 foot away from your body prior to lifting; rather, they should be kept as close as possible to reduce the risk of back strain.