An Excerpt from the course on Lifting and Moving Patients

Power lift:

The power lift technique ensures a safe and stable move for the patient and protects the EMR from injury, especially for those who have weak knees or thighs.  While using this technique, keep your back locked and avoid bending at the waist.

1. Place your feet shoulder-width apart. Taller rescuers may use a wider stance since this brings them closer to the object to be lifted.
2. Turn your feet slightly outward – this might give a sense of comfort and stability
3. Bend your knees to bring your center of gravity closer to the object to be lifted. Bend your knees as though you are sitting down, not falling forward.
4. Tighten your back and abdomen muscles to splint the vulnerable lower back. The back should remain as straight as comfortable, with your head facing forward in a neutral position.
5. Keep your feet flat with your weight evenly distributed and straddle the object.
6. Place your hands at a comfortable distance, usually 10 inches apart, to provide balance to the object as it is lifted.
7. Always use a power grip to get maximum force from the hands. Your palm and fingers should come in complete contact with the object, and all fingers should be bent at the same angle.
8. Your upper body should come up before the hips while lifting hips. Your back should remain locked in as the force is driven through the heels and arches of your feet. And,
9. Reverse this process to lower an object.