Additional Key Points and Definitions

  1. Moving and positioning someone in bed: Make it a habit to pause and think about the principles of body mechanics before you begin to move or position anyone. Tell the person what you plan to do and ask for cooperation and assistance. Position your body correctly with knees bent. Have the person close to you whenever possible. Let the person do as much of the move as he or she is capable of.
  2. Draw sheet: A bed sheet that is folded in half hem to hem and centered on the bed between the patient’s shoulder and mid-thigh. It is used to help slide the patient to a new position.
  3. Gloves: A protective barrier for the hands. Gloves are worn when there is a chance of coming into contact with body fluids such as blood, feces, sputum or urine.
  4. Handwashing: The most effective measure to prevent the spread of germs. Always wash hands before and after providing care and always wash hands after removing gloves.
  5. Mechanical lift: A device that is used to lift and move someone from one surface area to another, such as from the bed to the wheelchair. A mechanical lifting device such as the Hoyer lift is most commonly used to move those who are unable to stand on their own or whose weight makes it unsafe to move or lift them manually.
  6. Use of bedpans: There are two types of bedpans, contour and fracture. Fracture bedpans require less movement from the client. Respond quickly when a person requests a bedpan. Use talcum powder to help reduce friction when placing the bedpan. Provide privacy.
  7. Bedpans left in place for more than 15 minutes can cause damage to the skin and underlying tissue.
  8. Making an occupied bed: Roll up dirty linens lengthwise to the back of the person in bed and place clean linens lengthwise on the empty side of the bed. Gently roll the person over the bunched linens, strip the dirty linens from the bed and finish placing and tucking in clean linens.
  9. Elasticized stockings (Compression stockings) are used to improve circulation and prevent blood clots in the legs. They come in various sizes and lengths. Stockings should be changed every 8 hours. Change stockings daily after bathing.
  10. Range of motion exercises: Range of motion exercises are designed to move muscles and joints through their complete range of motion, helping to maintain strength and flexibility and increase circulation. Passive range of motion exercises require the assistance of another person. The patient can do active range of motion exercises by him or herself.