What should employees do to minimize the risks of lifting and transferring patients? Select all that apply.

Answer

To minimize the risks of lifting and transferring patients, healthcare workers should follow safe patient handling guidelines. The correct practices include: 1) Explaining planned lifting procedures to patients so they understand what will happen and can cooperate, reducing sudden movements or resistance. 2) Using available ergonomic assistive devices (such as lifts and transfer boards) to reduce physical strain. 3) Using proper body mechanics (such as keeping the back straight, bending at the knees, and keeping the load close to the body) to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Relying solely on their own strength is discouraged because manual lifting without mechanical aids is a primary cause of worker injuries.