Mobility and Body Mechanics

Overview

Mobility and body mechanics focus on the safe movement of both the nurse and the patient to prevent injury. Nurses assess the patient's ability to move, provide assistance with transfers, and implement interventions to prevent the hazards of immobility. Maintaining proper body alignment is essential for respiratory and circulatory function.

Key nursing concepts

• Proper body mechanics protect the nurse from musculoskeletal injury.
• Immobility leads to complications like pressure ulcers and pneumonia.
• Range of motion (ROM) exercises maintain joint flexibility.
• Safe patient handling involves using mechanical lifts whenever possible.
• Shear and friction are primary causes of skin breakdown during movement.
• Proper alignment prevents contractures and nerve damage.

Important nursing considerations

• Ensure the client remains in the center of the bed with rails up as needed.
• Use a friction-reducing sheet when boosting a client up in bed.
• Assess for orthostatic hypotension when moving from lying to standing.
• Always lock the wheels on wheelchairs and stretchers before transfer.
• Coordinate movements with a count of three to ensure team synchronization.
• Evaluate the need for assistive devices like gait belts or mechanical lifts.

Patient teaching

• Avoid crossing legs to prevent circulatory compromise.
• Perform leg exercises every 1 to 2 hours while on bed rest.
• Rise slowly from a sitting to standing position to prevent dizziness.
• Use supportive non-skid footwear when ambulating.

Related practice questions

Real questions from the NursGuru bank, each with the answer and rationale.

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