During lifting a patient, which principle should be applied?

• A. Use the greatest number of muscles possible
• B. Use only the back muscles
• C. Keep elbows extended away from body
• D. Move while twisting the torso

Answer: (A)

Engaging the largest number of muscle groups while lifting distributes the effort and protects the spine. When you lift, you should involve the legs and core, keep the load close to your body, and maintain a stable stance so the work is shared rather than borne by the back alone. This approach reduces the risk of injury to you and the patient by spreading the strain across multiple muscles and maintaining safer alignment.

Relying on back muscles alone concentrates stress on the spine. Keeping elbows extended away from the body can reduce control and increase leverage on the back and shoulders, making the lift harder and riskier. Moving while twisting the torso creates torsional stress on the spine, a common source of injury. If the lift is heavy, seek help or use assistive devices to maintain proper mechanics.