Body Mechanics and Patient Mobility

What does the field of body mechanics study?

• The functions of the heart

• Muscular actions and the functions of muscles in maintaining the posture of the body

• The nervous system

• The digestive process

Body mechanics refers to the way we move our body.

• True

• False

Fill in the blank: Safe patient transfer requires adequate staffing, the right mix of personnel, and appropriate, readily available, well-maintained patient-lifting equipment such as ________, ________, ________, and ________.

• Roller boards, sliders, transfer chairs, gait belts

• IV poles, stethoscopes, thermometers, blood pressure cuffs

• Wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, hospital beds, call bells

• Bandages, syringes, gloves, masks

Who is responsible for being competent in the appropriate and safe use of equipment and for ensuring that UAP are knowledgeable regarding proper use of assistive devices?

• The patient

• The family

• The licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)

• The physician

What is the area of physiology that studies muscle action and how muscles function in maintaining the posture of the body and prevention of injury during activity called?

• Kinesiology

• Body Mechanics

• Anatomy

• Physiology

Body mechanics includes knowledge of how certain muscle groups are used.

• True

• False

Alignment refers to the relationship of various body parts to one another and helps balance and coordinate movements smoothly and effectively.

• True

• False

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of good posture for body mechanics?

• A) Chin and head erect and parallel to the floor

• B) Abdomen is relaxed and protruding

• C) Flex knees slightly

• D) Feet are shoulder width apart for a broad base of support

Select two characteristics of good posture for body mechanics.

• Back is straight and shoulders are aligned

• Slouching and rounded shoulders

• Twisted spine and uneven weight distribution

• Head is tilted forward and knees are locked

Identify the type of postural misalignment shown in the diagram:

• Kyphosis

• Lordosis

• Scoliosis

• Healthy