Warm-up

What is body mechanics? Read page 62 and create your own definition.

LEQ

Why are good body mechanics important?

What do we remember? PASS? Pull the pin, Aim at base of fire, Squeeze handle

and Sweep from side to side

RACE? Rescue (everyone exit), Alarm (tell someone or do

it yourself), Contain (windows/door/blankets), Evacuate or Extinguish (order)

Fire Triangle? Fuel, Heat, Oxygen

Body Mechanics

- Positions / movements used to maintain proper posture and avoid muscle and bone injuries.

How often do you use body mechanics?- Everyday!

When would you use it in the health field? In the health field you will need to lift, move, and

carry objects, possibly clients.

Body mechanics

Which is correct?

Principles of Body Mechanics

Body Alignment: refers to the correct relationship or position of the head, back, and limbs

Body performs better in proper alignment!

Standing= Feet 6-10 inches apart, feet flat, knees slightly flexed

Body Mechanics Failure… Lead to injury! Back injury is

most common (sprains, disc strain and bulge, herniated disk and fatigue)

Back injuries take a long time to recover

Better to prevent!

Proper Body Mechanics when LIFTINGWhat do you

need to remember?

With your partner, list 5 situations in the health field where proper body mechanics is crucial!

Key Components!-Wide base of support (feet shoulder width)

-2 hands to move something

-Face direction you intend to move

-Do not twist

-Avoid unnecessary reaching

-Chin up

-Shoulders back

-Bend at hips & knees (not back)

Key Components… Keep objects close to your body Exhale when lifting Tighten abdominals Lift with legs, not back Push, pull or slide instead of lifting Push large items Use your body weight Always ask for help when needed Tell client what you’re doing & ask for their help

Practice!Go to page 59 in your book.

With a partner, practice procedure 3B.

Partner A reads steps aloud, Partner B performs. Switch when directed.

Homework!Look up, define and print out

pictures of each of the following:Fractured diskHerniated diskSprains/strains

Answer LEQ

Why are good body mechanics important?