Body Mechanics, Ergonomics & Safe Patient Handling

Proper body mechanics protect both the nurse and the patient during any lifting, transferring, or repositioning task: keep the load close to the body, bend at the knees and hips rather than the waist, engage the core/leg muscles rather than the back, keep feet shoulder-width apart for a stable base of support, and avoid twisting the spine while lifting — pivoting the feet instead of twisting the torso is the correct technique when changing direction with a load. Widening the base of support and lowering the center of gravity both increase stability during any physically demanding task, whether lifting a patient, moving equipment, or assisting with ambulation.