Body Mechanics
Body mechanics refers to the coordinated use of body position, movement, and alignment to prevent injury during patient care activities such as lifting, transferring, and repositioning. Proper body mechanics protect both the nurse and the patient from musculoskeletal injury.
Exam Tip
Use the LARGEST and STRONGEST muscles (legs/thighs) for lifting. Wide base of support. Keep load close to body. Pivot feet instead of twisting. Use mechanical lifts for dependent patients. Raise the bed to waist height before patient care. Push rather than pull.
What Are Body Mechanics?
Body mechanics is the efficient, coordinated use of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems to maintain balance, posture, and alignment during activity. In nursing, proper body mechanics are essential to prevent work-related injuries, particularly back injuries, which are among the most common occupational hazards for healthcare workers.
Principles of Proper Body Mechanics
| Principle | Application |
|---|---|
| Wide base of support | Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, one foot slightly ahead |
| Bend at the knees and hips | Use leg muscles (strongest muscles) to lift, not the back |
| Keep the load close to the body | Reduces strain on the back and arms |
| Avoid twisting | Turn the entire body by pivoting the feet |
| Tighten core muscles | Engage abdominal muscles before lifting |
| Use smooth, coordinated movements | Avoid jerky or sudden motions |
| Push rather than pull | Pushing requires less effort and is safer |
| Get help or use assistive devices | Use mechanical lifts, gait belts, slide boards when available |
Common Patient Care Scenarios
| Scenario | Proper Technique |
|---|---|
| Lifting a patient in bed | Use a draw sheet; get assistance; raise bed to waist height |
| Transferring bed to wheelchair | Lock wheelchair; use gait belt; pivot, don't twist |
| Repositioning in bed | Use a draw/turn sheet; lower the HOB; work in pairs |
| Ambulating a patient | Stand on the weaker side; use gait belt; support at waist |
| Bending to patient level | Bend at knees, not waist; squat if possible |
Safe Patient Handling Equipment
| Device | Use |
|---|---|
| Mechanical lift (Hoyer lift) | Transferring dependent patients |
| Gait belt (transfer belt) | Assisting with ambulation and transfers |
| Slide board | Lateral transfers between surfaces |
| Draw/turn sheet | Repositioning patients in bed |
| Sit-to-stand lift | Assisting partially weight-bearing patients |
Exam Alert
Body mechanics questions appear in the Safety and Infection Control category on the NCLEX-PN. Key points: use the strongest muscles (legs), maintain a wide base of support, keep objects close to the body, avoid twisting, and always use mechanical lifts for dependent patients. The nurse's safety is equally important as the patient's.
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Related Terms
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are the fundamental self-care tasks that individuals perform daily, including bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, transferring (mobility), and continence. Assessing ADLs helps nurses determine a patient's functional status and care needs.
Range of Motion (ROM)
Range of Motion (ROM) refers to the full movement potential of a joint, measured in degrees. ROM exercises are nursing interventions performed to maintain or improve joint flexibility, prevent contractures, and promote circulation in patients with limited mobility.
Scope of Practice (Nursing)
Scope of practice defines the legal boundaries of what a healthcare professional is authorized to do based on their education, licensure, and state Nurse Practice Act. For LPNs/LVNs, the scope includes basic nursing care, data collection, medication administration, and care plan implementation under RN or physician supervision.
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