h. Squat and place the object onto the lower area.
(1)
Bend at the knees and hips.
(2)
Maintain a straight back.
(3)
Maintain a stable base of support.
(4)
Use your arm and leg muscles (as needed) for guidance.
(5)
Use your leg muscles to resume an upright position.
Section II. POSITIONING AND AMBULATING THE ADULT PATIENT
4-8.
INTRODUCTION
One of the basic procedures that nursing personnel perform most frequently is
that of changing the patient's position. Any position, even the most comfortable one, will
become unbearable after a period of time. Whereas the healthy person has the ability
to move at will, the sick person's movements may be limited by disease, injury, or
helplessness. It is often the responsibility of the practical nurse to position the patient
and change his position frequently. Once the patient is able to ambulate, certain
precautions must be taken to ensure the patient's safety.
4-9.
REASONS FOR CHANGING THE POSITION OF A PATIENT
The following are reasons for changing a patient's position.
a. To promote comfort and relaxation.
b. To restore body function.
(1)
Changing positions improves gastrointestinal function.
(2)
It also improves respiratory function.
(a) Changing positions allows for greater lung expansion.
(b) It relieves pressure on the diaphragm.
MD0905
4-7
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