To safely lift and carry a patient, all of the following are correct practices except:

• A. Keep your back straight during the lift.
• B. Use a wide stance with legs bent.
• C. Stair chair straps are not necessary for a cooperative patient.
• D. Communicate with the team and use proper body mechanics.

Answer: (C)

Safe lifting and carrying relies on using your legs and keeping a stable, neutral spine, along with clear team communication and securing the patient with restraints when using equipment like a stair chair. Keeping your back straight during the lift protects the spine by letting the leg muscles do the work, which reduces strain on the back. A wide stance with knees bent lowers your center of gravity and provides a solid base, improving balance and control. Communicating with the team ensures coordinated movement and helps prevent twists or missteps that could cause injury. The idea that stair chair straps aren’t necessary for a cooperative patient isn’t correct; straps should always be used to secure the patient to the stair chair to prevent movement and reduce the risk of falls. When these practices are followed, lifting and carrying are performed as safely as possible.