Which of the following actions should the nurse take to use a wide base support when assisting a client to get up in a chair?

Appeared in: GMCH Chandigarh - 2019

Explanation

Spreading the feet apart is the direct method to create a wide base of support.
A wider base increases the nurse's stability and improves balance during patient handling tasks.
This stance allows the nurse to lower their center of gravity, which enhances control and reduces the muscular effort needed to lift.
It is a foundational principle for preventing musculoskeletal injury to the healthcare provider.

Option A: Bending at the waist places all the strain on the lower back muscles and spine, which is a leading cause of injury. Proper body mechanics require bending at the knees and hips, using the strong leg muscles.
Option B: While facing the client and bending the knees are correct components of a safe transfer, this option does not describe the action that creates a wide base of support. The feet must be spread apart to achieve a stable base.
Option D: Lifting a client from behind is unsafe. It provides poor control, prevents communication, and does not allow the nurse to properly observe the client's response or assist if they become dizzy or lose balance.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Use the key finding related to Principles of Body Mechanics in Nursing to guide bedside assessment, documentation, and the next nursing action.
Proper body mechanics are critical for preventing musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs), such as back strains, which are highly prevalent among nursing professionals.
Using a wide base of support is a simple yet effective technique to ensure both nurse and patient safety during transfers, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
What if the client is very weak, heavy, or uncooperative? The nurse should not attempt a manual transfer alone. The correct procedure is to use a mechanical lift device and/or get assistance from other staff members to ensure safety.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is 'wide base of support'. This is a key term in body mechanics.
Recall the fundamental principles of safe patient handling. A wide base of support is created by the position of the feet.
Analyze each option to see which one directly addresses the creation of a wide base.
Option A describes an incorrect lifting posture (bending at the waist).
Option B describes other correct actions (facing client, bending knees) but not the one that establishes the base.
Option D describes an unsafe position (behind the patient).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 4 pp. 115-117, 100-102

Practise the full GMCH Chandigarh - 2019

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.