2. Objectives
• Define & discuss ergonomics as it applies to the STNA
• Define body mechanics
• Identify & demonstrate the rules of good body mechanics
– SKILL: Transfer Person Using Mechanic Lift
– SKILL: Transfer Person Using Sit-to-Stand Lift
• Demonstrate general principles for lifting and moving residents
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SKILL:
SKILL:
SKILL:
SKILL:
Moving the Person up in Bed with an Assistive Device
Position Person on Side
Transfer from Bed to Wheelchair
Transfer from Wheelchair to Bed
• Describe correct body alignment
• Explain why correct body alignment is important
• Demonstrate correct body alignment
3. Ergonomics
• Adapting the environment using techniques
and equipment to prevent injury and
provide more efficient care.
• Shared responsibility
– STNA
• Gaining and using skills for properly caring for
residents
– Employer
• Facilitating a safe workplace, work environment and
appropriate equipment
4. Body Mechanics
• Describes the body movements used
when you move a resident or an object
• Purpose
– Make the best use of strength and avoid
fatigue and injury
5. Rules of Body Mechanics
• Use as many large muscles or groups of large muscles
as possible.
• Stand erect!
• Place the feet apart, with the knees bent, the width
of your shoulders when lifting – broad base of
support.
• Be a close as possible to what you are lifting or
moving.
• Push, pull or roll, if possible, rather than lift a heavy
object.
• Use your arms to support the object.
6. Rules of Body Mechanics
• Work in the direction of your efforts, not
against them. Avoid twisting!
• Always count with the person you’re working
with and lift/move on the same count.
• Use 2 people when moving residents who
cannot assist you.
• Pivot and turn with short steps or turn our
whole body when changing directions.
• Use mechanical lifts or other devices per facility
policy and manufacturers’ recommendations.
• Don’t follow plan of care or policy when moving
resident = neglect!
7. Positions
• Supine: The back-lying position
• Prone: Lying on the abdomen (stomach)
with the head turned to one side.
• Lateral: The side-lying position
• Fowler’s: A semi-sitting position with the
head of the raised between 45-60 degrees
8. General Principles for Lifting and
Moving the Resident
• FIRST: explain the procedure to the resident first
• Protect privacy!
• Give the most support to the heaviest parts of the
body.
• Hold the resident close to your body for best support
• Use smooth and steady, not jerky, motions.
• Lock the bed and chair!
• Elevate the bed if possible when moving or
repositioning a bedfast resident.
• Use draw sheet when indicated to avoid shearing and
tearing of skin.
• Use the gait belt around the resident’s waist for safety.
9. Correct Body Alignment
• Head
– Erect, not forward or extended backward
• Spinal Cord
– Straight, normal position
• Extremities
– Depends on position of person
• Feet
– Walking, not slanted forward
• Wrists
– Neither flexed or extended
• Hips
– Straight in line with the thighs
10. Importance of Correct Body Alignment
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Promotes comfort
Prevents pain
Strain not placed on joints, muscles or tissue
Prevents contractures
Prevents skin breakdown
Promotes sense of well being