Basic Principles of body mechanism

1. It is easier to pull, push, or roll an object than to lift it. The movement should be smooth and continuous, rather than jerky.

2. Often less energy or force is required to keep an object moving than it is to start and stop it.

3. It takes less effort to lift an object if the nurse works as close to it as possible. Use the strong leg and arm muscles as much as possible. Use back muscles, which are not as strong, as little as possible. Avoid reaching.

4. The nurse rocks backward or forward on the feet and with his or her body as a force for pulling or pushing. Principles under lying proper body mechanics involve three major factors: center of gravity, base of support, and line of gravity.