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Difficulty: EasyErgonomics and Safe Use of Equipment

During a shift in a long-term care facility, a practical nurse (PN) needs to move a restless older adult client from the bed to a wheelchair. The client has limited mobility and is intermittently pulling at an intravenous (IV) insertion site. To maintain proper ergonomics and ensure the safe use of equipment, which actions must the PN implement? Select all that apply.

  1. Lock the wheels on both the hospital bed and the wheelchair before beginning the movement.Answer
  2. Apply a transfer belt snugly around the client's waist to provide a secure handhold.Answer
  3. C
    Apply bilateral soft wrist restraints to prevent the client from pulling the IV line during the transfer.
  4. Position the wheelchair on the client's stronger side at a 45-degree angle to the bed.Answer
  5. E
    Delegate the initial assessment of the client's weight-bearing capability to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP).

Answer

The correct actions are to lock the wheels on both the bed and wheelchair, apply a transfer belt to the client, and position the wheelchair on the client's stronger side.
Safe client transfers require the proper use of equipment, such as locking the wheels on both the bed and wheelchair to prevent unexpected movement. Ergonomic principles must also be applied, which includes using a transfer belt to maintain a secure hold and positioning the wheelchair on the client's stronger side. This allows the client to pivot on their strongest leg, minimizing the physical strain on the nurse and ensuring a safe transition.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the safety and ergonomic requirements for transferring a client with limited mobility.
The use of a transfer belt, locking wheels, and positioning the chair on the stronger side are recognized as standard, necessary safety measures.
Proper equipment use and body mechanics prevent falls and reduce the risk of injury to both the client and the nurse.
2
Evaluate the distractor regarding restraints for the restless client.
Applying restraints for a transfer is rejected.
Restraints are a last resort; less restrictive alternatives must be attempted and documented first, even if the client is pulling at an IV line.
3
Evaluate the distractor regarding delegation to the UAP.
Delegating the assessment of weight-bearing ability is rejected.
Initial assessment requires nursing judgment, which is outside the scope of practice for unlicensed assistive personnel.

Key Concept

Safe Client Transfer and Equipment Use
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Topics

Ergonomics and Safe Use of Equipment

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