The right movements make the nursing staff’s work easier
A method of changing the bedding
In this manner the sheet and incontinence underpads can be changed by one person:
Remove the blanket, unfasten the sheet on all sides, carefullyroll the patient to the side. Stand on the side to which the patient is to be rolled. Take hold of the patient by his shoulder and hip and roll him toward you. Place the lower leg stretched downward, pull the upper leg – slightly belt – forward.
Roll the used sheet on the free side up to the patient’s back. Fasten a fresh sheet to the mattress, push it up to the patient’s back and pull it taut.
Carefully roll the patient over both sheets to the other side. Remove the used sheet, put on the new one and carefully pull it taut.
Change incontinence underpads in the same manner. If the patient can no longer help at all, two persons are needed for changing.
Three important patient positions
Elevation of the upper body For high elevation of the upper body, adjust the back support to the suitable height. Support the feet at a right angle so that the patient does not slide down. Position the arms at the sides, at about heart level, and also support them well.
Dorsal position For a dorsal position, support the neck and head with a small pillow so that respiration is eased. Bend arms and legs slightly for muscular relaxation. Bend the hollows of the knees slightly by placing a roll cushion under them. Support the feet at a right angle; position the heels so that they dangle freely.
Lateral position For a lateral position, turn the patient to the side and support the back with a pillow to prevent the patient from sliding back. Stretch the lower leg, pull the upper leg slightly forward and position on a pillow. The arm on the bottom can be positioned on the side in front of the body or the arm on the top is bent and supported with a pillow.
Good posture can protect against lesions
Eine gute Körperhaltung beugt Beschwerden am Rücken vor
A good posture can protect the carer against intervertebral disk lesions.
Stride and straddle position at the sick bed It is advisable to stand in a stride or straddle position at the sick bed, with the soles of the feet completely on the floor. Because it ensures a stable standing position – naturally when suitable shoes with a good foot bed and non-slip soles are worn. If the patient has to be lifted, stand with your feet apart and bend your knees. This enables you to make the movements “elastically“ from your joints.
Never arch your back when lifting and carrying loads. Because this deforms intervertebral disks, giving them a wedged shape, which in turn causes overly strong pressure to develop on certain points on the edges. It is better to keep your back straight and bend your knees, taking up a straddle position if necessary.
Useful support grips
The support grip is suited for propping up a patient who can sit without help after being propped up. Stand next to the bed at the side and grasp the patient with your right hand under the patient’s right armpit or with your left hand under the left armpit. Grasp the patient under his other armpit with your other hand under his neck and shoulder. The patient’s head rests in the crook of the carer’s arm. Prop up the patient in this manner.
The hook support grip is necessary when a patient has to be propped up but can no longer help. Two carers arenecessary for this. They stand in a straddle position to the left and right of the bed and hook their right hands respectively under the patient’s buttocks. One carer supports the patient’s head and neck with his left arm, the assistant grasps the patient under the hollows of his knees with his left arm. The patient’s arms are folded on his upper body. Upon the command the patient is lifted and propped up.
