Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumErgonomics and Safe Use of Equipment

A client is recovering on a surgical unit two days after an open cholecystectomy. The nursing care plan specifies using a powered standing-assist lift for transfers to the chair. The client is currently confused, highly agitated, and attempting to pull at their surgical drain. An unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is waiting to assist with the scheduled transfer. Which action should the practical nurse take?

  1. Cancel the transfer, lower the bed to its lowest position, and activate the electronic bed alarm.Answer
  2. B
    Apply soft bilateral wrist restraints to protect the surgical drain while operating the standing-assist lift.
  3. C
    Perform a comprehensive mobility assessment and independently change the transfer orders to require a full-body sling lift.
  4. D
    Place the client in a flat supine position to physically restrict movement until the agitation subsides.

Answer

Cancel the transfer, lower the bed to its lowest position, and activate the electronic bed alarm.
A powered standing-assist lift requires the client to be cooperative, able to bear some weight, and follow instructions. Attempting to transfer an agitated and confused client with this equipment violates ergonomic safety principles and risks injury to both the client and staff. Implementing a bed alarm and lowering the bed are appropriate, scope-compliant safety measures.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate the client's current cognitive and physical status against the requirements for the prescribed transfer equipment.
The client is confused and agitated, meaning they cannot safely participate in a standing-assist transfer.
Standing-assist lifts require the client to bear partial weight and cooperate; using it on an agitated client violates ergonomic and safety guidelines.
2
Identify the safest alternative intervention within the PN scope of practice to protect the client and staff.
The nurse chooses to delay the transfer, lower the bed, and apply a bed alarm.
These actions prevent falls and equipment-related injuries without using unauthorized restraints or exceeding the practical nursing scope of practice.

Key Concept

Ergonomics and Safe Use of Equipment: Patient Readiness for Lifts
Rate this question

Topics

Ergonomics and Safe Use of Equipment

More questions from this topic