Question

Difficulty: MediumBasic Care and Comfort

Two nurses are preparing to move a conscious, partially mobile client up in bed using a friction-reducing draw sheet. Place the steps of this procedure in the correct chronological order.

  1. 1Adjust the bed to a flat position and raise it to the working height of the nurses' waists.
  2. 2Remove the pillow from under the client's head and place it upright against the headboard.
  3. 3Instruct the client to cross their arms over the chest and bend their knees with feet flat on the mattress.
  4. 4Roll the edges of the draw sheet tightly against the client's sides and grasp it securely.
  5. 5Synchronize the movement by shifting weight from the back leg to the front leg on a count of three.

Answer

The correct sequence begins with positioning the bed for safety and body mechanics, followed by protecting the client's head, positioning the client to assist, grasping the draw sheet securely, and finally performing the synchronized movement.
The procedure for moving a client up in bed requires sequential prioritization of nurse ergonomics and client safety. The environment is prepared first by flattening and raising the bed to prevent staff injury. Next, the client's head is protected with a pillow against the headboard. The client is then positioned to actively assist by bending their knees, which reduces the nurses' workload. Finally, the nurses establish a secure grip and use momentum via weight shifting to safely complete the task.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Adjust the bed to a flat position and raise it to the working height of the nurses' waists.
The bed is flat, reducing gravity, and is at a height that prevents strain.
Proper body mechanics dictate working at waist level to prevent back injuries. A flat bed prevents working against gravity during the pull.
2
Remove the pillow from under the client's head and place it upright against the headboard.
The client's head rests on the mattress and the headboard is padded.
This crucial safety step protects the client's head from accidentally striking the hard headboard when gliding toward the top of the bed.
3
Instruct the client to cross their arms over the chest and bend their knees with feet flat on the mattress.
The client is in a compact position ready to assist with the move.
Crossing arms reduces surface friction. Bending the knees allows the client to push with their legs, decreasing the physical effort required from the nursing staff.
4
Roll the edges of the draw sheet tightly against the client's sides and grasp it securely.
The nurses have a firm grip close to the client's body.
Grasping close to the client's center of gravity maximizes biomechanical leverage, making the lift safer and more controlled.
5
Synchronize the movement by shifting weight from the back leg to the front leg on a count of three.
The client is successfully and safely moved up in the bed.
A synchronized count ensures smooth movement. Shifting weight uses the nurses' larger leg and core muscles, preventing dangerous lower back strain.

Key Concept

Basic Care and Comfort: Safe Client Handling and Mobility
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