CHT Body Mechanics, Ergonomics & Physical Safety Flashcards

When pushing a wheelchair with a patient, a transporter should maintain which posture?

Answer: Upright spine, knees slightly bent, hands at a comfortable grip height

Maintaining an upright spine with slightly bent knees reduces lumbar strain and allows controlled, safe propulsion of the wheelchair.

What is the MOST common work-related injury among hospital transporters?

Answer: Musculoskeletal injuries, particularly to the lower back

Repetitive lifting, pushing, and repositioning of patients puts transporters at high risk for lower back and musculoskeletal injuries.

Before lifting a patient or heavy equipment, a transporter should FIRST:

Answer: Assess the load, clear the path, and position their body correctly

Pre-lift assessment of the load and environment, combined with proper body positioning, significantly reduces injury risk.

The power zone for lifting is best described as:

Answer: The zone between mid-thigh and mid-chest where the body can exert the most force safely

The power zone (mid-thigh to mid-chest) allows the strongest and safest lifting posture by keeping the load close to the body's center of gravity.

Which of the following is an example of proper body mechanics when moving a gurney?

Answer: Pushing the gurney while keeping the back straight and using leg muscles

Pushing with a straight back and engaging leg muscles distributes force efficiently and reduces spinal stress during gurney transport.

A transporter is asked to move a bariatric patient but feels the task may exceed safe lifting limits. The CORRECT response is to:

Answer: Request additional personnel and use appropriate bariatric equipment before proceeding

Bariatric transfers require additional team members and specialized equipment to protect both the patient and the transporter from injury.