Patient Transfer Techniques and Body Mechanics

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Questions and Answers

What should be considered when transferring a patient with a hip replacement via the posterior approach?

Internal rotation is permitted

Adduction must be avoided (correct)

Flexing the hip beyond 90 degrees is allowed

Weight bearing is not tolerated

Which method is NOT used for stretcher transfers?

Draw sheet

Two person lift (correct)

Sliding mat

Slider board

During a wheelchair to x-ray table transfer, what is the first step to take with the patient's legs?

Place the legs on the table while lowering the patient’s head and shoulders (correct)

Ensure the patient is upright before moving the legs

Elevate the legs first

Hold both legs firmly and swing them to the side

What is the primary purpose of safety side rails during patient transfers?

To prevent falls during transport Signup and view all the answers

Which precaution is essential for patients who cannot stand safely during transfers?

Use of a hydraulic lift Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the bed-to-wheelchair transfer process?

Lower the bed to wheelchair level and elevate the head of the bed. Signup and view all the answers

What is essential to do before performing a transfer using a gait belt?

Check if the patient has orthostatic hypotension. Signup and view all the answers

During a transfer involving a weak patient, which action should be taken to ensure safety?

Assist the patient using a gait belt. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a rule of body mechanics when transferring patients?

Bend at the waist to lift. Signup and view all the answers

For transferring a patient from a bed to a stretcher, what is one key consideration?

Ensure the stretcher wheels are locked. Signup and view all the answers

When using a hydraulic lift, what should be done first?

Check the safety of the lift. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a patient shows signs of distress during a transfer?

Stop and assess the patient's condition. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an appropriate precaution after a surgical hip replacement?

Align the patient's body straight during transfers. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to ensure effective communication during a patient transfer?

Clearly explain each step to the patient. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration when using a draw sheet for a patient transfer?

Ensure the draw sheet is free of wrinkles. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Patient Transfers

Patient transfers require wheeled transport for safety
Use wheelchairs for patients who can sit upright
Use stretchers for patients who are too weak to sit
Transport infants in incubators or cribs
Check patient identification prior to transfers
Always prepare the work area and ensure equipment safety
Enlist patient cooperation during transfers and communicate the process
Never hesitate to ask for additional help when necessary

Body Mechanics

Maintain a broad base of support
Work at a comfortable height
Bend knees and keep back straight while lifting
Keep loads balanced and close to the body
Roll or push heavy objects, avoid pulling or lifting

Bed-to-Wheelchair Transfers

Lower the bed to wheelchair level and elevate the head of the bed
Position the wheelchair parallel to the bed, lock the wheels, and move the footrests
Place one arm under the patient's shoulders and one under the knees, and lift the patient to a sitting position
Patients who can stand can move to the wheelchair with minimal assistance
Use a gait belt for weak or unsteady patients
Lock the wheelchair wheels to prevent falls

Wheelchair-to-X-Ray Table Transfers

Position the wheelchair parallel to the table and lock the brakes
Lower adjustable-height tables to chair level
Use a step stool with a tall handle for stationary tables
Raise the table to the appropriate height
Lower the bed to the stretcher level
Position the stretcher parallel to the bed with wheels locked
Patient may remain on the sheet or use a drawsheet for greater safety
Ensure the patient's safety by locking the stretcher wheels before leaving

Precautions for Patients with Hip Replacements

Patients who undergo hip replacement surgery via the anterior approach may sit upright
Patients who undergo hip replacement surgery via the posterior approach must avoid flexing the hip beyond 90 degrees
Weight bearing is usually tolerated in both approaches, subject to doctor's orders
Avoid abduction for patients who undergo anterior approach surgery
Avoid adduction for both approaches
Hip replacements require avoidance of internal or external rotation for anterior approach surgery
Avoid internal rotation for patients who undergo posterior approach surgery
Do not allow hyperextension in either approach

Stretcher Transfers

Three methods: draw sheet, slider board, and sliding mat
Roll the top portion of the folded sheet close to the patient's back
Roll the patient over the roll and facing the opposite direction
Unroll the sheet to lift or slide the patient

Lateral Transfer Sliding Board

Roll the patient away from the direction of the move to place the sliding board partly under the patient
Create a bridge between the table and the gurney
Roll the patient back onto the board, and slide the patient across the board
Remove the board by slightly rolling the patient off it

Safety Side Rails

Always ensure safety side rails are up and locked for:
- Patients who are impaired or unconscious
- During transport
- When patients are left unattended on a stretcher

Objectives

Demonstrate good body mechanics for lifting and moving heavy objects.
Ensure accuracy of patient identification.
Use safe techniques to move and transfer patients.
Safely assist patients into and out of wheelchairs.
Use a gait belt to assist weak patients.
List precautions for moving and positioning patients after hip replacement surgery.
Perform a two-person transfer of a patient.
Demonstrate the use of draw sheets, slider boards, and sliding mats for stretcher transfers.

Key Terms

Draw sheet
Gait belt
Gurney
Orthostatic hypotension
Sedation
Slider board
Sliding mat
Stretcher

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Description

This quiz covers essential techniques for patient transfers, including the appropriate use of wheelchairs, stretchers, and infant transport. It also emphasizes body mechanics to ensure safety and efficiency in lifting and moving patients. Test your knowledge on safe practices to improve patient care and mobility assistance.