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Difficulty: MediumErgonomics and Safe Use of Equipment

A client who is 2 days postoperative following a left hip arthroplasty requires assistance to move from the bed to a bedside commode. A continuous intravenous (IV) fluid infusion is running via an electronic pump. Which actions should the practical nurse (PN) take to ensure proper body mechanics and safe equipment handling? Select all that apply.

  1. Apply a gait belt securely around the client's waist prior to beginning the transfer.Answer
  2. B
    Position the commode on the client's left (operative) side to minimize the distance of the pivot.
  3. Verify that the IV pump is securely attached to a stable pole to prevent tension on the catheter tubing.Answer
  4. D
    Delegate the assessment of the client's weight-bearing tolerance to the assistive personnel (AP).
  5. Stand with a wide base of support and flex the knees when helping the client to a standing position.Answer
  6. F
    Administer a PRN sedative to prevent the client from attempting to ambulate without assistance.

Answer

The correct actions are applying a gait belt securely, verifying the IV pump is securely attached to a pole, and standing with a wide base of support while flexing the knees.
Applying a gait belt provides a stable handhold for the nurse, improving control over the client's movements. Securing the IV pump to a mobile pole ensures the infusion tubing is not stretched or dislodged during the transfer. Using a wide base of support with flexed knees allows the nurse to rely on strong leg muscles rather than straining the back, demonstrating proper ergonomic principles.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the goal and safety requirements of the clinical scenario.
The client needs to transfer to a commode while protecting a surgical hip and managing a continuous IV infusion.
Understanding the client's specific physical limitations and attached equipment dictates the safety measures needed.
2
Evaluate principles of safe body mechanics for the nurse.
The nurse must use a wide base of support and bend at the knees.
These ergonomic actions lower the center of gravity and rely on strong leg muscles, which prevents occupational back injury.
3
Determine safe equipment handling and transfer protocols.
A gait belt must be used for stability, the transfer should be toward the strong side, and the IV pump must be secured to a mobile pole.
Gait belts provide a safe center of control, pivoting toward the strong side protects the surgical hip, and securing devices prevents IV dislodgement.
4
Identify incorrect or unsafe practices among the options.
Transferring toward the operative side, delegating initial mobility assessments to an AP, and using sedatives inappropriately are unsafe.
These actions violate post-operative positioning rules, delegation scope, and restraint guidelines.

Key Concept

Ergonomics, Patient Handling, and Safe Use of Equipment
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Topics

Ergonomics and Safe Use of Equipment

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