Chapter 4 Safety and Infection Control 107 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Standing. When standing, your shoulder blades should be back, chest for- ward, knees straight, and the top of your head should align with the ceiling. Your pelvis should not tilt, and the arches of your feet should be supported by your shoes. Reaching. When reaching for an object, stand directly in front of it, making sure you are close to it. Avoid twisting or stretching. Use a stool or ladder for high objects but check the stool or ladder fi rst to make sure it is stable and will support you. Do not try to move the object if it is too large or heavy. Lifting. Practicing good body mechanics when lifting a heavy object requires you to keep your body in an upright position, with your back straight at all times. Your leg muscles should do most of the lifting work. Good body mechan- ics can be achieved by obeying the following principles when lifting objects: • Think before you lift. First, think how you will lift the object. Plan your path and make sure it is clear of any equipment or hazards. • Test the weight. Before you lift, assess the weight and make sure you can lift the item safely. If not, get help or use an assistive device such as a hand truck. • Bend at the hips and knees. With the lower back upright, the forces are distributed safely. • Maintain a wide base of support. A solid and wide base will help reduce the possibility of slipping while lifting. • Hold objects as close to you as possible. This technique reduces stress on your back. • Do not twist when carrying. Always move or change directions with your feet. This decreases the stress and load on your back. Twisting often occurs when moving a patient. • Tighten abdominal muscles when lifting. Your abdominal muscles help you lift while reducing strain on your lower back. • Lift with your legs. Using the large muscle groups in the legs helps reduce the forces exerted on the lower back. • When lifting a patient, communicate with her to let her know what you are doing. If possible, have the patient help you by moving her body as much as she can. • Lower your body down to meet the object you are trying to pick up. Never bend at the waist with your legs straight this is called stooping. • Lift straight up in one smooth motion. Use your leg muscles to return to an upright position. More musculoskeletal injuries are suffered by healthcare workers, such as orderlies, attendants, nurses, and nursing aides, than workers in any other industry. Back injuries in the healthcare industry are estimated to cost over $7 billion every year. You do not want to injure your back, so be sure to practice good body mechanics at all times. Did You Know? Back Injuries Back Injuries