Body Mechanics

Body Mechanics - When lifting or transferring keep the following in mind:

·        Always straighten out at the knees and hips when standing up to lift.

·        Keep the person's feet shoulder width apart. Doing so will support both the person being lifted and those that are doing the lifting.

·        Keep your back in good alignment and make sure that your feet are shoulder width apart.

·        Know where you are going and how to get there. If you have someone assisting with the lift, talk the plan through.

·        Remember to always bend at the knees and hips. Bending at the waist can cause injury to the back.

·        Remember to never twist the back but instead pivot your feet as you turn.

·        Wear non-slip shoes that have low heals to help maintain balance.

There may be times when you lose your balance or grip. The person you are lifting, or transferring may be fearful, not ready or moving. If there is danger that a person may fall, ease the person down onto the nearest surface. Remember to bend at the knees and hips. Use this technique if you ever experience pain while lifting or transferring.

When lifting or transferring are a part of a person's daily habits, assistive devices may be on hand for PCAs to use. These mechanical devices can make things easier on the person as well as the PCA staff if used properly. Examples of assistive devices that may be used are:

·        Canes

·        Hoyer lifts

·        Shower and lift chairs

·        Transfer belts

·        Walkers

·        Wheelchairs

The care plan will specify the use of mechanical devices. You will receive training on the proper use of these devices. PCAs should demonstrate their skill to the QP before using the devices with the person. PCAs should use these assistive devices when possible after training.

Use proper lifting and transferring methods to prevent back injuries at work. Tell your agency if you have had a back injury. Report lifting limits before working with a person. If you have problems with lifting the person, you need to notify the QP or agency. You must also call the QP or agency if the person needs more help lifting than usual.

Transfer Belt - A transfer or gait belt is a device used to help transfer people from one position to another or from one place to another. For example, you would use a transfer belt to move a person from a standing position to a wheelchair.

The transfer or gait belt is usually cotton webbing with a sturdy metal buckle on one end. The person wears a gait belt around the waist to provide a secure handhold for the caregiver. This puts less strain on the back of the caregiver and provides support for the person.

Hoyer Lifts - Lifts allow persons of care to transfer between a bed and a chair or other similar resting places. Lifts usually use hydraulic power. Examples of lifts include:

·        Hoyer lift (brand name)

·        Hydraulic lift

·        Patient hoist

·        Patient lift

·        Sling lift

Shower and Lift Chairs - A shower chair is a chair that is made of material safe for use in the water. Persons with disabilities use a shower chair for support while taking a shower. Shower chairs may or may not have wheels.

A lift chair is a chair that contains an internal mechanism to help a patient stand.

Canes - A cane (or walking stick) is a simple crutch to help balance movement. Canes help an injured or disabled person walk.

Walkers - A walker or walking frame is a tool for those who need extra support for balance or steadiness while walking.

Wheelchairs - A wheelchair is a wheeled mobility device in which the user sits. The device moves either by turning the wheels by hand or by an electric motor. People with problems walking or those unable to walk, use wheelchairs to get around.