Title: Demonstrate proper body mechanics and patient transfer.
Course: Respiratory Therapy I (14061-I) > Section: Developing Effective Communication and Patient Care Skills

Demonstration should reflect proper body mechanics in the handling of patients and equipment and in patient transfer (e.g., wheelchair to table, stretcher to table), to include the following back protection precautions:

- Keep feet shoulder-width apart.
- Keep knees properly bent.
- Use appropriate body mechanics per procedure.
- Use appropriate equipment (e.g., specialty lifts, draw sheets, transfer boards/sliders).
- Seek help when necessary.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What can be the results of improper body mechanics?
- How can the respiratory therapist recognize that the physical task at hand is too much for one person to handle?
- How can the respiratory therapist assess which equipment is best for patient transfer?