Chapter 3. Safe Patient Handling, Positioning, and Transfers Show
Positioning a patient in bed is important for maintaining alignment and for preventing bed sores (pressure ulcers), foot drop, and contractures (Perry et al., 2014). Proper positioning is also vital for providing comfort for patients who are bedridden or have decreased mobility related to a medical condition or treatment. When positioning a patient in bed, supportive devices such as pillows, rolls, and blankets, along with repositioning, can aid in providing comfort and safety (Perry et al., 2014). Patient Positions in BedPositioning a patient in bed is a common procedure in the hospital. There are various positions possible for patients in bed, which may be determined by their condition, preference, or treatment related to an illness. Table 3.6 lists patient positions in bed. Table 3.6 Patient Positions in Bed
Moving a Patient up in BedWhen moving a patient in bed, perform a patient risk assessment prior to the procedure to determine the level of assistance needed for optimal patient care. If a patient is unable to assist with repositioning in bed, follow agency policy regarding “no patient lifts” and the use of mechanical lifts for complex and bariatric patients. See Checklist 25 for the steps to move a patient up in bed. Checklist 25: Moving a Patient Up in Bed
Watch these three videos for more information about how to move a patient up in bed. Take this Repositioning a Patient in Bed, Caregivers at Head course to learn how to move a patient up in bed, with caregivers at the head of the bed. Take this Repositioning a Patient in Bed, Caregivers Facing Each Other course to learn how to move a patient up in bed, with the caregivers facing each other. Take this Repositioning a Patient in Bed, Diagonal Technique course to learn how to move a patient up in bed, with the caregivers standing positioned diagonally. Positioning a Patient to the Side of the BedPrior to ambulating, repositioning, or transferring a patient from one surface to another (e.g., a stretcher to a bed), it may be necessary to move the patient to the side of the bed to avoid straining or excessive reaching by the health care provider. Positioning the patient to the side of the bed also allows the health care provider to have the patient as close as possible to the health care provider’s centre of gravity for optimal balance during patient handling. Checklist 26 describes how to safely move a patient to the side of the bed. Checklist 26: Positioning a Patient to the Side of the Bed
Which examination position requires the medical assistant to raise the head of the bed to 30 to 45 degree angle?The Semi-Fowler's position is a position in which a patient, typically in a hospital or nursing home in positioned on their back with the head and trunk raised to between 15 and 45 degrees, although 30 degrees is the most frequently used bed angle.
Which position is most appropriate for checking heart and lung sounds?The optimal position for chest auscultation is sitting in a chair, or on the side of the bed. However, the patient's clinical condition and comfort needs to be considered during the examination and some patients may only tolerate lying at a 45° angle.
When lifting a heavy object the medical assistant should quizlet?When using proper body mechanics, medical assistants should twist the body in the direction of the object to be lifted. The medical assistant should push a heavy item rather than trying to pull it. Bending both the knees and the back is the best method of picking up a heavy object.
Which examination position is used in emergencies for patients in shock?Patient sits at the side of the bed with head resting on an over-bed table on top of several pillows. This position is used for patients with breathing difficulties. Place the head of the bed lower than the feet. This position is used in situations such as hypotension and medical emergencies.
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