Fundamentals of Nursing Q 387
Which of the following actions should the nurse take to use wide base support when assisting a client to get up in a chair?
A. Bend at the waist and place arms under the client’s arms and lift.
B. Face the client, bend knees, and place hands-on client’s forearm and lift.
C. Spread his or her feet apart.
D. Tighten his or her pelvic muscles.
Correct Answer: B. Face the client, bend knees, and place hands-on client’s forearm and lift.
This is the proper way of supporting the client to get up in a chair that conforms to safety and proper body mechanics. It is important to use proper body mechanics as a health care professional for many reasons, foremost of which is to prevent injuries to both patient and provider. Health care professionals at the front line, especially those who deliver direct care to patients, are often in situations where they have to assist with moving patients from one position to another.
Option A: Keep the back straight throughout the transfer to avoid bending or straining the back. Get as close to the person as possible while still allowing him/her to lean forward as needed to assist with the transfer.
Option C: Allow the patient to help as much as possible. Estimate the patient’s weight and mentally practice. Make sure that the floor is free of any obstacles or liquids. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep the person (or object) as close to your body as possible. Tighten your stomach muscles.
Option D: Position patients appropriately for transfer. While standing in front of the patient, maintain proper posture with the back straight and knees bent. Hold a strong abdominal contraction. Position the body close to the patient to decrease strain on the back. Before movement, contract the abdominal muscles to protect the back. Use the knees and the lower body during transfer to decrease strain on the back.