3 Mobility and Safe Patient Handling Free Online FlashCards

What should you assess before moving a patient?

Check the care plan and assess alertness, ability to follow directions, balance, strength, weight-bearing ability, pain, dizziness, and relevant movement restrictions.

How should you prepare the environment for a transfer?

Clear clutter, position the chair or mobility aid, use nonskid footwear, and lock the bed and wheelchair before a transfer.

What should you do if a patient becomes distressed during movement?

Stop the activity and get help if the patient becomes faint, unusually weak, short of breath, or distressed.

When is a full-body lift used instead of a standing-assist device?

A standing-assist device requires the patient to meet its weight-bearing and cooperation criteria. Use a full-body lift when the patient cannot safely support their weight.

What is a gait belt for, and what is it not for?

A gait belt can help stabilize some ambulatory patients, but it is not a lifting device.

What supports a safe patient transfer?

Use the prescribed number of helpers and device, coordinate with a clear count or cue, encourage participation, and avoid twisting or pulling the patient's arms.

What should you do if a patient begins to fall?

Never try to catch or lift a falling patient alone. Follow facility procedures and summon help.

What principles guide safe patient positioning?

Keep the body aligned and limbs comfortably supported. Avoid dragging, and reposition according to the patient's individualized care plan, skin condition, comfort, and support surface.

How do active and passive ROM differ?

In active ROM, the patient moves independently. In passive ROM, a caregiver gently moves the limb when the patient cannot do so.

How should a caregiver perform prescribed ROM?

Support the limb, move slowly and smoothly, and stop if the patient reports pain or you feel resistance. Never force a joint.

What should you check when selecting a mobility aid?

Use only the aid recommended for the patient; ensure it is in good condition and properly fitted, and follow training for its use.

When should a wheelchair be used, and what must you do for transfers?

Use a wheelchair when walking is not safe or permitted, and lock its wheels for transfers.