Which action helps prevent injury when moving a patient?

Which action helps prevent injury when moving a patient?

• A. Turn your whole body
• B. Twist your back while lifting
• C. Keep a narrow base of support
• D. Reach with your arms first

Answer: (A)

Turning your whole body to move is best because it lets you pivot with your feet and use your legs instead of twisting your spine. Keeping the spine in a neutral position reduces torque on the back and lowers the risk of strain or injury when lifting or moving a patient. A stable, wider base and a smooth pivot help maintain balance and control during the transfer. Twisting the back while lifting increases spinal torque and the chance of injury. A narrow base of support reduces stability and makes it easier to lose balance. Reaching with the arms first places the load away from the body, increasing leverage on the back and causing more strain.

Turning your whole body to move is best because it lets you pivot with your feet and use your legs instead of twisting your spine. Keeping the spine in a neutral position reduces torque on the back and lowers the risk of strain or injury when lifting or moving a patient. A stable, wider base and a smooth pivot help maintain balance and control during the transfer.

Twisting the back while lifting increases spinal torque and the chance of injury. A narrow base of support reduces stability and makes it easier to lose balance. Reaching with the arms first places the load away from the body, increasing leverage on the back and causing more strain.