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Use a firm base of support when lifting objects. Keep your feet hip width apart and your upper and lower body aligned.
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Use the stronger muscles of your hips and thighs to provide a center of gravity, which gives you more balance and support. Do not bend your back to lift items.
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Bend at your knees and hips to lower yourself. Do not bend your back or lean forward to push or pull objects. Use the large muscles in your legs and hips to bend and support your weight rather than using the smaller muscles of your back.
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When lifting an object, use the stronger muscles of your thighs and upper arms to lift the object. Do not reach for the object by stretching your back. Position yourself close enough so that you do not have to overextend your back or your arms to obtain the object.
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Keep objects you are lifting close to your body. This keeps the weight of the objects closer to your center of gravity, which provides you with more balance and stability. Keep your legs hip width apart while lifting. Keep your back straight.
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Pivot (turn) with your feet. Keep your upper and lower body aligned with one another when turning. Do not twist at your waist. Face objects or people you are moving to help avoid twisting at the waist.
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When standing up, use the strength of your hip and thigh muscles to raise your body and the object. Carry the object close to your body.
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Use a lift sheet or bed pad, placed under the patient, to assist with moving and positioning a patient in bed. Grasping the edges of the bed pad on either side of the bed pad rather than grasping the patient’s body parts or clothing, to lift the patient prevents the HHA/PCA and the patient from injury. Use a partner to assist with lifting patients in bed.