HAC Mobility & Rehabilitation Assistance Flashcards

When assisting a patient to transfer from bed to wheelchair, where should you position the wheelchair?

Answer: At a 45-degree angle to the bed on the patient's stronger side

Positioning the wheelchair at a 45-degree angle to the bed on the stronger side minimizes the pivot distance and allows the patient to use their stronger limb for support.

Which of the following is the safest way to use a gait belt when assisting a patient to walk?

Answer: Secure it snugly around the patient's waist and grasp it from behind and to the side

A snugly secured gait belt grasped from behind and to the side gives the aide a firm, safe hold to stabilize or catch the patient if they lose balance.

What does the term 'range of motion' (ROM) exercise refer to?

Answer: Exercises that move a joint through its full arc of movement

Range of motion exercises move a joint through its complete arc of movement to maintain flexibility and prevent contractures.

When performing passive range of motion exercises, the healthcare aide should:

Answer: Move the joint smoothly to the point of resistance, not pain

Passive ROM should be performed smoothly, stopping at the point of resistance or patient-reported pain to prevent injury.

A patient with left-sided weakness is being helped to dress. Which arm should be dressed first?

Answer: The left (weaker) arm

The weaker extremity is dressed first so it can be guided into the sleeve with minimal manipulation, reducing strain on that side.

Which body mechanic principle should a healthcare aide apply when lifting or moving a patient?

Answer: Keep the load close to your body and bend your knees

Keeping the load close to the body and bending the knees transfers weight to the stronger leg muscles and protects the lower back.