12.8.1: Procedure- Proper Body Mechanics

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Page ID: 67736

Erin O'Hara-Leslie, Amdra C. Wade, Kimberly B. McLain, SUNY Broome

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Proper body mechanics means using your body in an efficient and safe way. Using proper body mechanics prevents Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides from injuring themselves or their patient. Proper body mechanics involves always using good posture, keeping your back and trunk straight and aligned with your hips, and keeping your head facing forward toward the direction you are working. This prevents twisting, which increases your risk of injury. Turn your entire body, including your legs in the direction you move. Never twist the trunk or waist.

Bend your legs and not your back while working. Your feet should be about 12 inches apart to provide a strong base of support and balance for you to work. Use the larger and stronger muscles of your thighs, hips, shoulders, and upper arms while bending or lifting objects. This protects your back and smaller muscles from injury.

Keep objects close to your body when lifting or carrying them. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should always raise the bed to waist height when working with a patient who is in bed or making a bed. This prevents unnecessary bending of the back. When pushing, place one leg forward. When pulling, move one leg back. This provides you with a stronger and more stable base of support. Keep in mind when moving a patient that your path, or direction in which you are moving should be clear of objects that could get in the way and cause potential injury. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should always lock the brakes on the bed and wheelchair before transferring a patient. This prevents the bed or wheelchair from moving and causing potential injury to them or the patient.