An obese patient cannot ambulate and must be carried down several flights of stairs. The patient exceeds your physical capabilities; however, your partner is very strong and physically fit. Which of the following statements, made by you, indicates the best means to safely lift and move the patient as well as minimize your opportunity of suffering an injury?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best option is to call for assistance from additional personnel or specialized equipment, such as a stair chair, to safely move the patient without risking injury to the patient or yourselves. Option A suggests moving slowly down the stairs, which may still be unsafe without assistance or specialized equipment. Option B suggests that leaning backward will help, which is incorrect and may even increase the risk of injury. Option C suggests moving the patient quickly, which may also be unsafe and increase the risk of injury to all parties involved.

An Obese Patient Cannot Ambulate and Must Be Carried Down